The Los Angeles Rams’ 2026 NFL Draft class wasn’t defined as much by who they added as it was by who they didn’t address. General manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay once again leaned into a selective, value-based approach rather than aggressively filling every perceived need. That philosophy has paid off in the past—but this year’s strategy leaves behind a fascinating mix of winners and losers across the roster.
Winner: Byron Young & Josiah Stewart
A surprising outcome of the Rams’ draft was their decision not to select an edge
rusher. This comes after the organization emphasized back in February that you can never have enough pass rushers or defensive playmakers. Yet when draft weekend concluded, the edge room remained untouched.
That’s a massive vote of confidence in Byron Young and Josiah Stewart. And it could mean an extension for Byron Young.
For Young, the stakes are especially high. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, there had been speculation that the Rams might draft his eventual replacement or at least bring in competition. Instead, they doubled down on him as a cornerstone piece of their defensive front. Opportunity and pressure now go hand in hand—Young is positioned for a big payday if he delivers.
Stewart, meanwhile, benefits from the lack of incoming competition. Whether he’s viewed as a rotational piece or an ascending contributor, the Rams’ inaction at the position clears a path for increased snaps and a larger role in 2026.
Loser: Matthew Stafford
There’s no easy way to spin this—this draft did not do Matthew Stafford many favors.
First, the Rams selected a quarterback, signaling what many already suspected: the franchise is preparing for life after Stafford. Even if that transition isn’t immediate, the writing is on the wall. The clock is now ticking, and barring a Super Bowl run, the organization appears set to pivot within the next few years.
Secondly, the Rams waited until Round 6 to address the wide receiver position—despite it being one of their clearest needs. With uncertainty surrounding Davante Adams and the lack of a proven WR3, it’s puzzling that the front office didn’t prioritize giving Stafford more weapons.
For a quarterback still capable of high-level play, the lack of immediate offensive reinforcements raises questions about how committed the team is to maximizing his remaining window.
Winner: Jaylen McCollough
It may not jump off the page, but Jaylen McCollough is quietly one of the biggest winners from this draft.
The Rams didn’t select a single defensive back, which leaves the current depth chart largely intact. That’s especially significant in sub-packages, where McCollough is expected to play a key role. As the likely third safety in dime looks, he now has a clear path to meaningful snaps without worrying about a rookie cutting into his role.
In a league that increasingly relies on versatile defensive backs, McCollough’s value could rise quickly if he capitalizes on this opportunity.
Winner: Running Backs
All offseason, there was buzz about the Rams potentially making a splash move at running back—especially with names like Jeremiyah Love floating around draft discussions. That never materialized.
In fact, the Rams didn’t draft a running back at all—marking the first time in the Les Snead–Sean McVay era that they’ve completely bypassed the position.
That’s great news for Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, and Jarquez Hunter. The trio will return as the clear-cut 1-2-3 punch heading into 2026, with no rookie threatening to shake up the depth chart.
Continuity matters at running back, especially in McVay’s system. This group now has a full year to build chemistry and consistency without external pressure.
Loser: Davis Allen
The addition of rookie tight end Max Klare sends a strong message about the future of the position group—and it’s not a good one for Davis Allen.
Allen now appears to be the odd man out beyond 2026. With the expectation that the Rams will retain Colby Parkinson due to his rapport with Stafford, and with younger options like Klare and Ferguson in the pipeline, Allen’s long-term future with the team looks bleak.
By 2027, the tight end room could look entirely different, with Allen likely moving on in free agency and veteran Tyler Higbee nearing retirement. This draft pick didn’t just add depth—it reshaped the position’s trajectory.
Winner: Omar Speights
Finally, Omar Speights emerges as a quiet beneficiary of the Rams’ draft approach.
Linebacker was another position many expected Los Angeles to address, yet they stood pat. That decision opens the door for Speights to enter training camp as a projected starter alongside Nate Landman.
In a defense that values physicality and instincts at the second level, Speights now has a golden opportunity to cement himself as a long-term piece. Like several others on this list, the lack of draft competition puts the spotlight squarely on his development.
