As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Rams sit in a position that demands both clarity and boldness. After recent seasons of uneven performance, LA’s front office must balance immediate impact with long-term roster building. Fortunately, a handful of elite prospects—each with the potential to become difference-makers at the professional level—would fit perfectly into the Rams’ evolving blueprint. On a short list that includes Jeremiyah Love (RB), Carnell Tate (WR), Makai Lemon (WR), Jordyn
Tyson (WR), Francis Mauigoa (OT), Caleb Banks (DL), Sonny Styles (LB), and Caleb Downs (S), every player brings a unique skill set that could elevate this franchise.
L.A.’s roster isn’t devoid of talent, but it is incomplete. The offense still seeks explosive playmakers, especially in the passing game, while the defense needs more consistent disruption and versatility. Below, we’ll explore why the Rams should strongly consider selecting a player from this curated list and how each could immediately influence the team’s fortunes.
Jeremiyah Love — Running Back
The Rams have historically thrived with productive running backs who do more than just carry the ball; they change the tempo of a game. Jeremiyah Love is one such playmaker. Not your traditional between-the-tackles bruiser, Love blends elite burst with pass-catching prowess. His multidimensional skill set would give L.A.’s offense a versatile focal point on early downs and in third-down situations.
Love’s ability to stretch defenses horizontally—paired with breakaway speed—would also help open up play action, alleviating pressure on a passing attack that hasn’t consistently protected the football. With defenses increasingly geared toward hybrid fronts and nickel coverage, a back who can threaten big plays with his feet and hands is invaluable. Love fits this mold and could quickly become one of the most exciting offensive weapons in the league.
Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon & Jordyn Tyson — Wide Receivers
The Rams have star power at receiver but lack reliable secondary targets who consistently demand attention. Adding one of these three wideouts—Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, or Jordyn Tyson—could change that narrative.
- Carnell Tate is a vertical threat with contested-catch ability. He forces defensive coordinators to maintain safety help over the top, creating space underneath for tight ends and running backs.
- Makai Lemon brings crisp route-running and body control that consistently leads to separation. In an offense that values precision timing, Lemon’s skill set is ideal.
- Jordyn Tyson pairs deceptive speed with strong hands; he’s the kind of receiver who not only beats his man but also extends plays after the catch.
Any one of these receivers would add a dimension LA’s passing game has lacked: reliable, downfield playmaking that keeps opposing defenses honest. Right now, LA only has two reliable options when they use 11 personnel: Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. It would be wise for them to add a third receiver especially with Adams nearing retirement.
Francis Mauigoa — Offensive Tackle
Offensive line play is the foundation of every successful NFL offense. The Rams, who have a question mark at right tackle, would benefit tremendously from a tackle like Francis Mauigoa. Mauigoa combines powerful anchor strength with developing athleticism—qualities that could immediately improve both the running game and the quarterback’s pocket security.
Adding Mauigoa would not just be depth; it would represent a critical upgrade in a division filled with elite edge rushers. A sturdy offensive tackle gives the Rams flexibility to scheme creatively while keeping their signal-caller upright.
Caleb Banks — Defensive Lineman
Defensive line production has a direct ripple effect on the rest of the defense. Caleb Banks is the kind of disruptive force that changes offensive plans. Whether generating interior push or collapsing the pocket from the edge, Banks’ presence would free up linebackers and defensive backs to play more aggressively.
In an era where run-heavy and pass-heavy offenses are X-factor threats every week, a disruptive DL like Banks helps shatter rhythm, force turnovers, and consistently put a defense in advantageous down-and-distance situations. While he is not a need, he certainly gives the Rams the most dominant defensive front in football.
Sonny Styles — Linebacker
Linebacker play in today’s NFL must be versatile. Sonny Styles offers that and then some. His range sideline to sideline and instinctive play diagnosis fits perfectly into modern defensive schemes that require linebackers to cover backs, defend the run, and blitz when necessary.
Whether deployed in base sets or sub packages, Styles gives defensive coordinators flexibility. His leadership and playmaking instincts would bolster a unit looking to tighten up against both the ground and passing attack.
Caleb Downs — Safety
The Rams are likely to lose Kam Curl in free agency. Caleb Downs is day one starter with his coverage savvy and physical presence. Downs’ instincts in center field allow him to diagnose plays quickly and make adjustments on the fly—critical traits in an NFL defense that must react at the speed of the professional game.
As offenses trend toward multilayered passing attacks, having a safety capable of handling deep responsibilities while supporting the run is a luxury the Rams would be smart to invest in.
Which of these 8 players would you take if the Rams are on the clock at 13? How would you rank these 8 players?
