The 2026 season will likely be the final year for the Los Angeles Rams' incredible 2023 draft class to stay together. Their rookie deals will expire in March and the franchise could struggle to keep those players on the squad. From that class came Puka Nacua, Kobie Turner, Byron Young, Steve Avila, Davis Allen, Ethan Evans, Warren McClendon Jr., Stetson Bennett, and Desjuan Johnson.
Those men were pivotal in the Rams turning their 2023 season from a rebuild to a reload, overcoming a 3-6 start to make the playoffs with a game to play. That class has only improved from year to year, making the playoffs in three consecutive seasons, winning an NFC West title, and winning three playoff games. As they go about what could be their final year together,
Nacua spoke about his class, how much they've grown as individuals, and the pride that they have.
"I was speaking to somebody, we came in and there was 25 or 26 guys I think who were all a part of our rookie class drafted and undrafted," he said. "The fact that we still have a good core of our group over here is pretty cool. We've progressed. Some of us are dads now. We've been married. The progression of life and then in our careers has been really awesome to be a part of and stay connected.”
When the story of the post-Super Bowl LVI Rams is written, the foundation will be this class and how their common stubbornness gave the team the mentality to overcome continuous obstacles. They are in hot pursuit of a Super Bowl before free agency breaks up the class for good.
The Rams have yet to extend any members of the class.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Puka Nacua reflects on growth of Rams' remarkable 2023 draft class
