I’d summarize the Los Angeles Rams’ offseason vision—while at risk of over simplification—as follows:
A return to Les Snead’s all-in style in order to maximize the 2026 window opening. This could be Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams’ final seasons in the NFL. Add talent that will contribute now and start to envision how the roster will look in 2027 and beyond.
One idea that doesn’t fit into this overarching theme but is equally as important is LA’s commitment to getting better on special teams. The
Rams signed dependable veteran Joe Cardona at long snapper and brought in Detroit Lions’ ace specialist in Grant Stuard. Kicker Harrison Mevis returns on a exclusive rights free agent tender.
Let’s put aside the offseason moves so far, as exciting as they may be. One idea I can’t shake is that the Rams’ seven draft picks are perfectly situated to complete their offseason plans.
This is how I see the Rams approaching the draft:
Round 1 – 13th overall: High-upside pass catcher
We will know more about how the front of the draft order will shape up over the next month; however, at least for now the Rams seem well positioned to come away with a talented pass catcher with the 13th selection.
One of Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, Keyon Sadiq are likely to fall into LA’s lap.
Tyson has a lengthy injury history. He missed time during his final collegiate season with a hamstring injury, and that issue also cropped up ahead of his pro day. Tyson is easily the most polished and talented receiver in this class, though Tate and Lemon could reasonably go well ahead of him if teams are scared off by his bill of health.
Sadiq is an intriguing player but his fit with the Rams would bring questions on how to best deploy the current receivers plus Terrance Ferguson, Colby Parkinson, Tyler Higbee, and Davis Allen. Picks like these are often better ideas than the results based on execution.
Rounds 2 & 3: Premium long-term contributors
61st and 93rd overall
LA has two pretty large holes, at least from a depth perspective, at offensive tackle and corner. While their starters at these positions are entrenched for 2026, they could be in bad shape if any of the starters miss extended time. It also never hurts to build for the future and potentially replace an expensive contract with a player on a cost-controlled rookie deal.
It will be tough for a second or third round rookie to crack the Rams’ “all-in” line up. I’d view these picks as likely depth players for 2026 and then someone who can step into a larger role starting in 2027.
Rounds 6 & 7: Special teams, special teams
6th round: 207th overall
7th round: 232nd, 251st, 252nd overall
We know the Rams are now intentional about fixing their special teams. They should solicit feedback from new special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone and allow him to draft at least a couple of special teams aces with their late selections. Try to find a Cory Littleton, Matthew Slater, or Ben Skowronek type of individual that know their lane and can excel from day one.
