The Los Angeles Rams have already taken care of part of their 2026 rookie class, but three members of the draft haul still remain unsigned as the organization continues to work through rookie contract negotiations ahead of the summer. While rookie deals are largely slotted under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, offset language, payment structure, and guaranteed money can still create delays — especially for mid-round selections.
So far, the Rams have signed offensive lineman Keagen Trost
and wide receiver CJ Daniels to their rookie contracts, leaving quarterback Ty Simpson, tight end Max Klare, and defensive lineman Tim Keenan III as the remaining unsigned draft picks.
Even though the unsigned status of the remaining rookies is not considered alarming at this stage of the offseason, it is still something worth monitoring as OTAs continue and training camp approaches.
The Rams’ 2026 draft class was viewed as one of the more intriguing groups in the NFL, particularly because of the franchise’s decision to select Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round as the eventual successor to veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.
The biggest unsigned name is unquestionably Ty Simpson. First-round picks often take the longest to finalize because of the larger guarantees and more detailed contract language involved. Simpson enters the league carrying significant expectations after the Rams used the No. 13 overall pick on him in April.
Tight end Max Klare is another rookie who has yet to sign his deal. Klare was selected in the second round after an impressive college career that showcased his receiving upside and versatility as a modern tight end. Because second-round contracts can sometimes involve more negotiation than later-round selections, Klare’s unsigned status is not particularly surprising. However, getting him signed soon would allow him to fully focus on learning the offensive system and building chemistry with the Rams’ quarterbacks during offseason workouts.
Defensive lineman Tim Keenan III also remains unsigned despite being selected in the seventh round. While late-round rookie contracts are generally straightforward, teams occasionally stagger signings throughout the offseason.
Keagen Trost and CJ Daniels are the two rookies under contract. Both contracts were standard four year deals. Keagen Trost signed for $6.8 million, while CJ Daniels signed for $4.7 million. Based on recent history, Ty Simpson should command $22 million across his four year deal (plus a 5th year option). Last year’s 13th overall pick, Kenneth Grant of the Miami Dolphins signed for 4 years $21.9 million.
Again, there is no reason for panic quite yet. If anything the Rams correctly prioritized the contract extension of Matthew Stafford over Ty Simpson, further emphasizing that this is Matthew Stafford’s team for as long as he wants it to be.
