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[Los Angeles Rams]

Revisiting key Rams questions from before the draft

Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

I posed five Rams questions before the draft, and they gave us the answers this weekend

Before the NFL Draft I posed five questions as to what the Los Angeles Rams were planning. They gave us answers over the weekend and it’s time to revisit those items and attempt to unravel the team’s plans for 2025 and beyond.

1 - When do the Rams prepare for life after Matthew Stafford?​

Answer: Not this year, but you can see the vision​

We will never know if the Rams would have entertained Jaxson Dart in the first round because the New York Giants traded up in front of them to #25 to select their QB of the future. There were no signs that LA was going to take a quarterback this year outside of the unknown with Dart.

By trading down from #26 with the Atlanta Falcons, LA picked up an extra first rounder in 2026. Depending on how successful Atlanta is next year, this could either be a premium selection or packaged as ammunition to go get a long-term quarterback of the future—veteran or rookie.

Stafford is a year-to-year proposition with the Rams. 2026 could be the time to invest in his heir apparent.

2 - Are the Rams content at corner?​

Answer: Seems like it, mostly​

LA didn’t select a single corner in this class. In the second round they passed on Ole Miss’ Trey Amos.

I wrote pre-draft that it seems the Rams were solving with a quantity over quality approach with Darious Williams, Cobie Durant, Ahkello Witherspoon, Derion Kendrick, and Emmanuel Forbes. They are now in the mix for a reunion with Jalen Ramsey.

They might just roll with veteran stop gap options for the foreseeable future, as none of these players are guaranteed a spot on the roster in 2026 and beyond.

3 - How much does Rob Havenstein have left in the tank?​

Answer: Havenstein may be the long-term plan at RT​

Similarly to corner and quarterback, the Rams opted to not future-proof the right tackle position.

Rob Havenstein enters the final year of his contract and is now a prime candidate for a contract extension. He likely has some gas in the tank considering that Andrew Whitworth was able to play around age 40. Still, injuries have been a factor for Havenstein in recent years and that can be tough for any individual towards the end of his career. Havenstein is the only remaining carryover from the Rams’ days in St. Louis.

4 - Is this the year the Rams call an audible at linebacker?​

Answer: Chris Paul, Jr. will compete for starting role​

It’s difficult to say that a fifth round draft pick can come in and start day one, but given the Rams’ current depth at off-ball linebacker that may be in their best interest. In fairness, Chris Paul, Jr. fell further than most experts expected.

While these are tall expectations, Paul will compete with Troy Reeder, Nate Landman, Omar Speights, and UDFA Shaun Dolac to become the team’s starting linebacker.

5 - Can Les Snead keep his hot streak alive?​

Answer: It’s complicated​

Perhaps the best draft choice for the Rams in 2025 was the one they didn’t make, and that was moving back from #26 and going into next year with two first round picks.

The Rams’ roster is simply in better shape than it was a year ago. There are few avenues to easy playing time outside of maybe linebacker which we’ve covered. Top pick Terrance Ferguson might not play much if Tyler Higbee remains healthy. While third round pick Josaiah Stewart may be able to carve out a rotation role at EDGE, it’s unlikely that he unseats Byron Young as a starter.

LA’s had rookie of the year candidates on both sides of the ball over the last two years in Puka Nacua, Kobie Turner, Jared Verse, and Braden Fiske. Those players all stepped in immediately as day one starters, and this year’s crop simply won’t have that luxury barring injury.

While in the long run this could be another stellar draft class for Les Snead, it’s reasonably possibly we don’t see the same short-term dividends.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/26/24418438/rams-draft-burning-questions-recap-2025

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Each rookie’s odds of starting for Rams in year one

Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Examining each rookie’s opportunity to crack the starting lineup

The Los Angeles Rams 2025 draft class is set after an exciting three day weekend in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Rams added six new members to their roster and they are:

Terrance Ferguson, TE, Oregon​

Josiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan​

Jarquez Hunter, RB, Auburn​

Ty Hamilton, DT, Ohio State​

Chris Paul Jr, ILB, Ole Miss​

Konata Mumpfield, WR, Pittsburgh​

It was a busy weekend for Les Snead and Sean McVay, as they wielded four trades (three on Day 3). Now with their draft work complete, all eyes turn to the competition on the field as the team prepares for the 2025-2026 season.

The Rams did not have any glaring holes entering the draft, but that doesn’t mean one of these rookies can’t grab a starting spot from a veteran. So let’s look at each rookie’s chances of starting in the 2025 season..

Terrance Ferguson

Ferg will join a crowded TE room that consists of Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson, and Davis Allen. The starting job belongs to Higbee. However, Higbee is nearing the end of his career and may miss time here and there. Ferguson’s best chances of seeing the field is to win the TE2 job against Parkinson. But players transitioning from college to the NFL, the learning curve for a TE can be steep. It does not help that the weakest part of Ferguson’s game is his blocking ability - a huge factor for a Sean McVay offense.

Chances of starting: 3/10

Josiah Stewart

The Rams used their third round pick on an edge rusher which came as a surprise to some. To me, this was an excellent pick, because the Rams needed to fill Michael Hoecht’s role after he departed for the Buffalo Bills. Not only that, I do think Byron Young can be pushed for his starting role. Even if he doesn’t beat out BY, Stewart is likely to see meaningful snaps when the Rams deploy their ““Cheetah” - 5 man rush packages.

I could be wrong but Stewart may be projected as the the Hoecht/Cheetah package/five man rush player. Has a legit motor and personality (as described by our Dane Brugler) fits really well with this young group. https://t.co/nlxK5ErwCz

— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) April 26, 2025​

Chances of Starting: 5/10

Jarquez Hunter

It was only a matter of time until the Rams used one of their picks to select a running back. They traded up to start Day 3; selecting Jarquez Hunter. Hunter will have the opportunity to learn from Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. A rookie running back has to yet to start the year for Sean McVay and it would take a lot for Hunter to buck that trend. Hunter is probably a year away from seeing the field with the offense.

new Rams RB Jarquez Hunter from Auburn was the Rams top rated offensive player on the board entering Day 3

Les Sneed had an eye on him since fall.

After a zoom call before the draft with Sean McVay & Sneed, they immediately said:

"that's our guy if he's still there on day 3"…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) April 26, 2025​

Chances of starting: 0.5/10

Ty Hamilton

Hamilton was a part of a second trade up by Les Snead on Saturday afternoon. With Bobby Brown III and Neville Gallimore departing in free agency, LA added to its defensive front. Los Angeles did sign Poona Ford at the start of free agency. As it stands now, Ford, Turner, and Fiske look to be the starters. Tyler Davis will also likely see the field as a rotational player. I think Hamilton gets on the field albeit at a limited rate.

Chances of starting: 2/10

Chris Paul Jr

If anyone from the rookie class has the best shot to start it will be CPJ. Omar Speights, Troy Reeder, and Nate Landman are currently rostered, but none of them jump off the page with their play. If Paul Jr can show versatility early (defending run & pass), he will increase his odds. Reeder’s struggles show up in pass coverage. While Speights was bullied by the Eagles offensive line in both games last year.

Chris Paul Jr. was one of my favorite projections to the Rams. He plays so urgently, is very smart and like I said - for a team that is open-minded about size parameters and more focused on effort, he fits. https://t.co/C9hpXVWv6b

— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) April 26, 2025​

Chances of starting: 5.5/10

Konata Mumpfield

LA used its final pick, a seventh rounder on Pittsburgh wideout - Konata Mumpfield. Mumpfield is probably prioritizing a 53 man roster spot rather than trying to crack the starting lineup altogether. He features to be WR5 or WR6 depending on how McVay views Xavier Smith.

Chances of starting: 0/10

Of course there will be undrafted free agents competing for spots, so these guys have to fight off another batch of competition as well. Can’t wait for Rams training camp!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/27/24418725/rams-2025-nfl-draft-rookies

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Where do Rams still have holes on the roster? A post-draft look at the depth chart

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Let’s take a post-draft look at the Rams 2025 depth chart

The Los Angeles Rams may not have addressed some of the team’s biggest needs in the NFL Draft as some would have liked. However, they did fill some future gaps on the roster and gave themselves a future at a few positions where they had none.

One of the more insightful ways to look at a team’s depth chart is from a year-by-year standpoint as the needs are more in focus. A draft should rarely be about that specific season. Free agency is for the now on the roster while the draft is for the future. Let’s take a look at the Rams depth chart heading into the summer.

Offense​

The Rams addressed some of these future needs in the draft. With an out in Colby Parkinson’s contract and Tyler Higbee’s contract expiring, the Rams drafted Terrance Ferguson. Ferguson should provide a future at the tight end position.

Pos.	Contracted Years
2025	2026	2027	2028
QB	Matthew Stafford	Matthew Stafford (UFA)
QB2	Jimmy Garoppolo
QB2	Stetson Bennett	Stetson Bennett (RFA)
RB1	Kyren Williams (UFA)
RB2	Blake Corum	Blake Corum	Blake Corum (UFA)
RB3	Jarquez Hunter	Jarquez Hunter	Jarquez Hunter	Jarquez Hunter
RB4	Ronnie Rivers (UFA)
WR1	Puka Nacua	Puka Nacua (UFA)
WR2	Davante Adams	Davante Adams (Out)
WR3	Tutu Atwell
WR4	Jordan Whittington	Jordan Whittington	Jordan Whittington (UFA)
WR5	Quintez Cephus	Quintez Cephus (UFA)
TE1	Tyler Higbee (UFA)
TE2	Colby Parkinson (UFA)
TE3	Davis Allen	Davis Allen (UFA)
TE4	Terrance Ferguson	Terrance Ferguson	Terrance Ferguson	Terrance Ferguson
LT	Alaric Jackson	Alaric Jackson	Alaric Jackson (Out)
LG	Steve Avila	Steve Avila (UFA)
C	Coleman Shelton	Coleman Shelton (UFA)
RG	Kevin Dotson	Kevin Dotson (UFA)
RT	Rob Havenstein
OL1	Warren McClendon	Warren McClendon (UFA)
OL2	Beaux Limmer	Beaux Limmer	Beaux Limmer (UFA)
OL3	AJ Arcuri	AJ Arcuri (RFA)
OL4	KT Leveston	KT Leveston	KT Leveston (UFA)

Quarterback​

• Matthew Stafford
• Jimmy Garoppolo
• Stetson Bennett

The Rams got through the draft without selecting a quarterback. That was despite players like Shedeur Sanders and Jalen Milroe falling. This room could look a lot different next year as the Rams acquired another first-round pick in next year’s draft. That extra pick will provide ammo to get a top, young quarterback.

Running Back​

• Kyren Williams
• Blake Corum
• Jarquez Hunter
• Ronnie Rivers
• Cody Schrader
• Jordan Waters

It’s going to be interesting to see how the Rams distribute carries in this room. Is this a split between Williams and Hunter or does Corum remain the complementary back this season? Ronnie Rivers provides experienced depth. At the very least, the Rams added some more variety to this group by drafting Hunter who brings 4.4 speed.

Wide Receiver​

• Puka Nacua
• Davante Adams
• Tutu Atwell
• Jordan Whittington
• Xavier Smith
• Konata Mumpfield
• Quintez Cephus
• Drake Stoops
• Tru Edwards
• Mario Williams
• Brennan Presley

After all of the predictions that the Rams would take a wide receiver with an early pick, they didn’t take one until the seventh round. This is a group that is very good at the top with some questions behind them. Can Tutu Atwell step into a third wide receiver role? Jordan Whittington showed some promise. Mumpfield should provide some good depth as well.

Tight End​

• Tyler Higbee
• Colby Parkinson
• Terrance Ferguson
• Davis Allen
• Anthony Torres

It would be a surprise if all four of these players didn’t make the final 53-man roster. The addition of Ferguson and lack of additions in the wide receiver room could hint that the Rams want to move to more 12 personnel. We may see tight ends become a featured piece of the Sean McVay offense.

Offensive Line​

• LT Alaric Jackson
• LG Steve Avila
• C Coleman Shelton
• RG Kevin Dotson
• RT Rob Havenstein
• OT/iOL Warren McClendon
• OT AJ Arcuri
• iOL KT Leveston
• iOL Justin Dedich
• iOL Dylan McMahon
• iOL Willie Lampkin
• OT Trey Wedig
• OT Ben Dooley

It was a surprise that the Rams didn’t draft an offensive lineman. Even if they have confidence in McClendon and Arcuri, there was a need for depth at that tackle spot. Outside of Limmer, the Rams also have a lot of unproven depth on the interior. It’s true for every team, but the Rams are going to hope they are healthy on the offensive line this year.

Defense​

Despite cornerback being the Rams biggest need, it was not a position that they took in the draft. Even looking at the future depth chart, Ahkello Witherspoon and Darious Williams are either free agents or have an out after this season. The Rams added some stability at linebacker and got some important depth on the edge.

Pos.	Contracted Years
2025	2026	2027	2028
DE1	Kobie Turner	Kobie Turner (UFA)
DE2	Braden Fiske	Braden Fiske	Braden Fiske (UFA)
DE3	Desjuan Johnson	Desjuan Johnson (UFA)
DE4	Ty Hamilton	Ty Hamilton	Ty Hamilton	Ty Hamilton (UFA)
NT	Poona Ford	Poona Ford	Poona Ford (Out)
NT2	Tyler Davis	Tyler Davis	Tyler Davis (UFA)
LB1	Omar Speights	Omar Speights	Omar Speights (RFA)
LB2	Nate Landman (UFA)
LB3	Troy Reeder (UFA)
LB4	Chris Paul Jr.	Chris Paul Jr.	Chris Paul Jr.	Chris Paul Jr.
EDGE1	Jared Verse	Jared Verse	Jared Verse (UFA)	Jared Verse (5th Year)
EDGE2	Byron Young	Byron Young (UFA)
EDGE3	Nick Hampton	Nick Hampton (UFA)
EDGE4	Brennan Jackson	Brennan Jackson	Brennan Jackson (UFA)
EDGE5	Josaiah Stewart	Josaiah Stewart	Josaiah Stewart	Josaiah Stewart
CB1	Darious Williams	Darious Williams (Out)
CB2	Ahkello Witherspoon (UFA)
CB3	Cobie Durant (UFA)
CB4	Derion Kendrick (UFA)
CB5	Emmanuel Forbes	Emmanuel Forbes (UFA)	Emmanuel Forbes (5th Year)
CB6	Josh Wallace	Josh Wallace (RFA)
S1	Kam Curl (UFA)
S2	Quentin Lake (UFA)
S3	Kam Kinchens	Kam Kinchens	Kam Kinchens (UFA)
S4	Jaylen McCollough	Jaylen McCollough (RFA)

Defensive Line​

• DT Kobie Turner
• NT Poona Ford
• DE Braden Fiske
• DE Larrell Murchison
• NT Ty Davis
• DT Ty Hamilton
• DE Desjuan Johnson
• DE David Olajiga
• DT Jack Heflin
• DL Bill Norton

This remains a very solid group with a lot of good depth. With the addition of Ty Hamilton, the Rams defensive line is arguably six players deep. Hamilton is the run-stopper that the Rams needed on the defensive line and will likely play behind Murchison as a rookie. Signing Poona Ford is an upgrade from a pass rush perspective over Bobby Brown III.

Linebacker​

• Omar Speights
• Nate Landman
• Troy Reeder
• Chris Paul Jr.
• Elias Neal
• Shaun Dolac
• Tony Fields II

Despite adding players like Nate Landman and Chris Paul Jr., this is still a position group with a lot of question marks. Landman is a good run-stopper and Paul does provide upside. However, is in an unproven group outside of Speights. Even Speights will have something to prove in year two and hopefully improves.

EDGE​

• Jared Verse
• Byron Young
• Josaiah Stewart
• Nick Hampton
• Brennan Jackson
• Keir Thomas
• Jamil Muhammad
• Josh Pearcy

Adding an edge rusher to this group in the draft was important. There were a lot of unknowns with Jackson and Hampton. Bringing in a player like Stewart will at least add some competition to that spot. Keir Thomas is experienced depth. Stewart is an exciting addition and should be able to do some of the Michael Hoecht things.

Cornerback​

• Ahkello Witherspoon
• Darious Williams
• Cobie Durant
• Emmanuel Forbes
• Derion Kendrick
• Josh Wallace
• Shaun Jolly
• Charles Woods
• Cam Lampkin
• AJ Green

The Rams seem to be a lot more confident in this group than analysts and fans. Not only does this group need upgrades, but there isn’t much here after 2025. Ahkello Witherspoon and Darious Williams could be gone after this year. Cobie Durant is also on the final year of his rookie contract. The way that the Rams have handled this position is confusing to say the least.

Safety​

• Quentin Lake
• Kam Curl
• Kamren Kinchens
• Jaylen McCollough
• Tanner Ingle
• Malik Dixon-Williams

It was surprising that the Rams didn’t draft a safety late with Quentin Lake and Kam Curl on the last year of their deals. This is the same group that the Rams found some success with towards the end of last year. A big question will be how big of a step Kam Kinchens takes in year two.

Special Teams​

There’s not a lot to discuss here when it comes to the Rams special teams unit. Joshua Karty found his rhythm towards the end of the year and Ethan Evans improved in year two. This has become a “set it and forget it” position group which is a good thing.

Pos.	Contracted Years
2025	2026	2027	2028
P	Ethan Evans	Ethan Evans (UFA)
LS	Alex Ward	Alex Ward (RFA)
K	Joshua Karty	Joshua Karty	Joshua Karty (UFA)

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/28/24419499/rams-post-draft-depth-chart

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams pinpoint their 2025 draft selections

The Rams draft Ty Hamilton at #148 | Photo by Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Les Snead and Sean McVay appear confident in their roster

In their smallest draft class since 2016, the Los Angeles Rams brought home six players. That 2016 class was also six prospects and was dominated by the move up to #1 overall to grab quarterback Jared Goff. It was a completely different case in 2025, with the Rams making subtle moves to pinpoint certain players and buildup areas they deemed in need. A best player available at positions of need approach.

General Manager Les Snead said of the approach:

... it was based on our roster, how the board was going and players that you really were convicted could come in and contribute, whatever the vision for the role was. It was starting to get thin so we said, ‘You know what? Instead of waiting and let the draft happen to you, let’s go attack the draft.’ When you do that, you have to give up some picks but we thought that was the more appropriate thing to do as this thing evolved over the course of the each round.”

Head coach Sean McVay added:

“... you say you never want to chase for a need but the draft did kind of unfold and then you’re aggressive in pursuit of some players that you like...It’s six players that we have a lot of appreciation for [and] you’re not reaching.”

Many Rams fans thought the cornerback position could/should be upgraded and that did not come to pass. Rather than a miss, maybe it was we fans not reading the room. Entering the draft, L.A. had 10 cornerback’s under contract, all three starters back from last year, and added a former #1 draft pick late in the season. The only buzz about the position was about the possible reunion with Jalen Ramsey. In retrospect, it was quite clear that the Rams braintrust is quite comfortable with the cornerback room.

In fact, listening to the Snead/McVay post-draft presser, they both come off as very assured of the roster. Before and after the draft. When asked about whether all the young players added to the roster and gaining experience in the past drafts were part of the decision process to bring in a smaller, more focused group, McVay said:

“I mean the question and from some of the things that we’ve done, you’re really saying,‘Okay, the players that you’re choosing, what’s the vision? How do you anticipate them contributing not only for the ‘53’ [53 man roster] but for the 48 [active players on gameday]. Are you going to be active?’ Obviously, there are a lot of things that take place that we can’t control, but I do think it’s a credit to what’s taken place over the last couple years. I think in a lot of instances because of some of the circumstances and situations that we’ve had, there’s a patience that we’ve had and that we’ve learned as coaches to give guys an opportunity to come in.”

Snead was more definite that drafting fewer players was dependent on how few open roles the Rams actually have, saying:

“...that plays a part when you have a roster where there are players coming back and returning with starting experience and playing experience… I would say [there are] less ‘wide open’ spots... if it might have been a draft where you felt like the board could have given you 14 quality players, maybe you go that route. Again, if we would’ve brought in 14 draftees, it’s probably a hard roster to make though.”

Under the Snead/McVay regime, draftees have normally been given plenty of time to develop and earlier in his tenure, McVay was known to bring rookies along slowly. That has changed in the past couple of draft classes. Most of that can be explained away by the Rams fast and loose attitude towards draft picks during the original rebuild and now L.A. is holding on to their higher draft capital.

McVay finally picked his TE Terrance Ferguson…. How are we feeling? pic.twitter.com/mMgt1PY9v6

— RamsNation (@LARamsey46) April 26, 2025​

Did the Rams improve the 2025 roster?​

Yes, incrementally.

Before the draft, I queried in these forums, if L.A. would shoot for playmakers or try to fortify the roster. The Rams chose the latter. While not sexy, they produced a utilitarian group that all have high floors and should be able to provide some value right away. While there no sure fire All-Pro’s, five of the six appear ready to compete in rotations/packages.

L.A. took another step forward on defense. The best pass defense is getting after the passer, a journeyman grade secondary unit can be raised by getting opposing QB’s off their spot. Getting Josaiah Stewart at E#3 should pay some dividends right away, he’s not gifted athletically but his tape is explosive and he can certainly rush the passer. Chris Paul at ILB#2 can help in three ways, he’s athletic enough to play in coverage, a physical tackler with great range, and can blitz. Improving on the overall linebacking play can he supported by a bigger, stronger interior. Ty Hamilton is not huge but has a squatty build and stellar strength. He was the “dirty work” guy on a very good college defensive line.

I’m perfectly fine with betting on an extreme size outlier if they take on blocks/set the edge like Josaiah Stewart. Superhuman pic.twitter.com/WyIHSYHrGE

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) April 14, 2025​

On offense it was about becoming more versatile and getting the offense back to a high-octane unit. Terrance Ferguson at TE#2 has the juice to work the seams downfield, is a good screen target, and is dangerous turning short passes into gains. Sure, his blocking needs work, but in today’s NFL and the Rams quick downhill run scheme, just being able to seal off is considered okay if you can catch and run. Jarquez Hunter at RB#2 is a hard-nosed SEC runner with some breakaway upside. The Rams love Kyren William’ toughness, but Hunter is nails too and could push for reps.

When you combine this draft with the L.A. offseason roster moves, there’s incremental improvement on both sides of the ball and at all three levels of each.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/28/24419495/rams-les-snead-sean-mcvay-draft

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams Shadow Draft: Should CB and OT been more of a priority?

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Did the Rams make a mistake not prioritizing cornerback or offensive tackle?

The NFL Draft is over and the Los Angeles Rams have their class of six rookies. On the surface it looks like general manager Les Snead didn’t necessarily get an exciting class, but animportant one that could end up being impactful.

Snead has gotten some fair criticism for his drafting in the past. However, it’s also very easy to criticize after the fact.

Throughout draft weekend, I conducted another “shadow draft,” meaning that any time the Rams were on the clock to select a player, so was I. This is a fun exercise just to see the different paths of “my” draft class and the Rams’ real-life draft class.

This was my sixth year doing the exercise. You can see those results here.

The idea here is very much not that I would do a better job drafting than the Snead and the Rams. This is simply a fun exercise in what is a process that requires a lot of luck.

Below are the rules:

1. Past Shadow Draft results do not carry over. Every year is a new year and I draft with the current Rams roster and needs in mind.

2. I follow along with whatever real-life trades Snead and the Rams made. So even though I might have wanted to trade up to pick 148 or wanted to trade down from 26, I was along for the ride.

3. I make my picks in real time when the Rams are on the clock and make my pick before the Rams’ selection was announced. Revisionist history is lame.

46th Overall - CB Trey Amos, Ole Miss​

It was a surprise that Trey Amos lasted as long as he did. This is a player that the Rams were projected to take at 26. To be able to get him 20 selections later would have been great value. The Rams did get a player that they still would have taken at 26, but that player was tight end Terrance Ferguson.

Coming into the draft, the cornerback position was a big need and the Rams getting their guy at 46 would have been huge. It says a lot that I’ve done this exercise six times and in each of the last four drafts, cornerback has been my top pick. The Rams have not drafted a cornerback since 2022. A trade for Jalen Ramsey post-June 1 is certainly possible, but not taking a cornerback is still a head-scratcher.

Where They Went: 61st Overall, Washington Commanders

Actual Rams Pick: TE Terrance Ferguson, Oregon

90th Overall - LB Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon​

This is my shadow draft and I’m going to take some of my favorite players if it makes sense. It should be no secret that Bassa was one of my favorite players throughout the draft process. His leadership ability in combination with his attention to detail in the film room and upside in coverage make him extremely intriguing as a prospect.

The Rams had a huge need at linebacker coming into the draft. Omar Speights was good against the run in 2024, but a player that could provide coverage upside and hold their own against the run would have made for a good pairing. Bassa was the perfect player for that.

Where They Went: 156th Overall, Kansas City Chiefs

Actual Rams Pick: EDGE Josaiah Stewart, Michigan

117th Overall - OT Marcus Mbow, Purdue​

While the Rams didn’t need a starting tackle by any means, adding depth with a player who could fill a swing tackle role should have been a consideration. Whether the Rams didn’t like this tackle class or players they would have wanted went off the board, it wasn’t something that was addressed. With the tackles dwindling, I took Purdue’s Marcus Mbow. As Brandon Thorn of the Trench Warfare substack noted,

“I gave Mbow a third-round grade based on his 2024 film at right tackle for Purdue. He impressively handled himself in pass protection despite Purdue having a 1-11 record and game script that consistently put him in obvious drop back situations. Mbow lacks the needed play strength to hold up against NFL power on day one, but his movement skills and technical refinement offer good value in round five. Expect him to compete for a swing backup role and possibly win a job at a guard spot or right tackle.”

Mbow brings tackle-guard versatility which is something that the Rams currently lack. Warren McClendon is more of a tackle that can play either side and the same can be said about AJ Arcuri. Mbow fits a clear need and could compete for the starting right tackle spot if Rob Havenstein hangs it up at the end of the year.

Where They Went: 154th Overall, New York Giants

Actual Rams Pick: RB Jarquez Hunter, Auburn

148th Overall - RB Damien Martinez, Miami​

Coming into the draft, Damien Martinez was one of my favorite running backs in the class. While he didn’t necessarily bring the home run speed that the Rams needed, he ranked second in the class in yards after contact. He led the class in yards per carry between the tackles. Martinez brings some of the same elements as Williams, but is much more physical after contact.

Where They Went: 223rd Overall, Seattle Seahawks

Actual Rams Pick: DT Ty Hamilton, Ohio State

172nd Overall - QB Kyle McCord, Syracuse​

Getting a quarterback like Kyle McCord here feels like good value. McCord would flourish in a McVay style system and push Stetson Bennett for the third quarterback spot on the roster. Heading into 2026, he provides a long-term backup after Jimmy Garoppolo’s contract expires and potential flexibility if the Rams don’t like the 2026 quarterback class.

Where They Went: 181st Overall, Philadelphia Eagles

Actual Rams Pick: LB Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss

245th Overall - WR Xavier Restrepo, Miami​

Restrepo did not test well at The Combine, but he was one of the better route-runners in this class and did hit 19 miles per hour at the Senior Bowl which was faster than Jack Bech. The Miami receiver competes at the catch point and in the run game. He also brings upside as a returner.

Where They Went: UDFA

Actual Rams Pick: WR Konata Mumpfield, Pitt

The Full Class​

• 46 - CB Trey Amos
• 90 - LB Jeffrey Bassa
• 117 - OT Marcus Mbow
• 148 - RB Damien Martinez
• 172 - QB Kyle McCord
• 242 - WR Xavier Restrepo

Based on where they were selected, Martinez in the fifth round was probably my biggest reach. An argument could have been made for Jaydon Blue or DJ Giddens. A safety like Dante Trader Jr. might also have made sense. Looking back, while Martinez was the highest running back on my board, he is much what the Rams already have.

Tight end was a position that I couldn’t get a good value on in the draft. The 46th pick seemed too high for a Ferguson or Harold Fannin Jr. That may be the position that I regret not taking.

Overall, I like what I did with my first three picks, getting Amos, Bassa, and Mbow. McCord also feels like a good pick as a long-term backup option. Amos and Bassa give the Rams a future at cornerback and linebacker and it feels like forever since that has been the case.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/29/24420297/rams-2025-shadow-draft-grades-trey-amos

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

How did the Rams draft class perform in college last year?

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

How did the Rams crop of rookies perform in college last year?

The Los Angeles Rams draft haul received glowing reviews by analysts. Some of that may be from Los Angeles’s ability to turn their 26th overall pick into the 46th overall pick + 2026 first rounder (from Atlanta). At the same time, Los Angeles just did a solid job of solidifying depth across the roster. They grabbed players that fit their style of play and that were productive in college. How productive? Here’s how Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded each player in the College Football 2024 season.

Terrance Ferguson​

2024 PFF grade: 73.9

In his final season at Eugene, Ferguson posted a solid grade. It was more so boosted by his hands; considering his 77.0 receiving grade. He was dinged a little bit with his blocking which will be something he will need to improve upon at the next level. Adding strength and showing more physicality in the trenches will be imperative that he can validate his second round value.

Josiah Stewart​

2024 PFF grade: 91.2

Stewart was the highest graded player by PFF that the Rams selected over the weekend. Stewart posted a whopping 27.7% pass-rush win rate and a 92.3 PFF pass-rushing grade in 2024. Against true pass sets, he was even better...

All Edge rushers in this class (including Campbell and Walker) pass rush win rates against true pass sets. pic.twitter.com/Fgyus1o3JD

— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) March 19, 2025​

Jarquez Hunter​

2024 PFF grade: 81.5

Across four seasons at Auburn, Hunter was the definition of consistent. His rushing grades never dropped below 82.4. In his final year, he forced 59 missed tackles while moving the chains on the ground 68 times. LA needed to improve their explosiveness on offense and Hunter provides that type of change of pace in the run game.

Career Explosive Run rates from 2025 RBs

RJ Harvey: 21%
Jarquez Hunter: 18.9%
Cam Skattebo/Bhayshul Tuten: 18%
Marcus Yarns: 17.9%
Damien Martinez: 17.8% pic.twitter.com/oHfAbvtUlI

— Football Insights (@fball_insights) February 20, 2025​

Ty Hamilton​

2024 PFF grade: 65.0

Hamilton had the lowest grade of all the Rams draftees but a 65.0 is still in the light green (slightly above average) grading scale. He was particularly impressive against Iowa; earning a 91.3 game grade. Hamilton was highlighted for his ability to bring down ballcarriers when they came his way as evidenced by his 7% missed tackle rate.

Chris Paul Jr​

2024 PFF grade: 87.2

Paul earned positive marks for his versatility in run-defense and pass-rush; with 84.6 and 84.0 grades respectively.

Chris Paul Jr. climbing the ladder to get a piece of this ball #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/gHS2XImHdK

— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) April 2, 2025​

Konata Mumpfield​

2024 PFF grade: 69.7

Mumpfield also provides Los Angeles with some versatility. He was particularly impressive in contested-catch situations - hauling in those passes at a 60.0% rate. His lower grade is probably due to a poor performance against Clemson where he received a 50.2 overall grade. He was held to 5 receptions for 58 yards in that game.

Overall, PFF reacted favorably to the Rams draft class; giving the organization a “B+”. We’ll see if the rookies can live up to the collective grade over the next four years!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/4/30/24412286/rams-2025-rookie-class-pff-grades

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Jordan Waters stands out in the Rams running back room

Rams sign RB Jordan Waters as a free agent | Photo by Lance King/Getty Images

Undrafted free agent boasts size and athleticism

Since Todd Gurley flamed out, the Los Angeles Rams have had a mold at running back. On the smaller side, 5’8 or just above and weighing 200 to 210 lb. While that puts L.A. on the outer fringe of the NFL averages, today’s NFL running backs are generally smaller. The trend follows the uptick in passing and highlights the need for receiving skills to complement running out of the backfield.

In the 2025 NFL Draft last week, L.A. drafted RB Jarquez Hunter at #117, and at 5’ 9” 204 lb. he’s right at home size-wise in the Rams running back room. However, later in the process L.A. also added a bigger back to the unit of smaller frames, signing Jordan Waters out of North Carolina State as an undrafted free agent (UDFA). Let’s look at him.

Jordan Waters - North Carolina St. 6’ 222 lb. - 32 2/3” arms 9 5/8” hands ​

Pro Day: 1.48/4.50 forty - 7.06 shuttle - 4.33 3cone - 33.5 vert - 10’ broad - 17 bench

The 2025 RB class is STACKED

NC State RB Jordan Waters displayed his dominance at Duke for two years and now looks toward his campaign as a 6th year senior.

At 6’0 220lbs, he put up 1369 yards and 20 TDs on the ground in his last two seasons as a Blue Devil. pic.twitter.com/VDlqoS2IHo

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) April 30, 2024​

Recruited as a three-star quarterback/wide receiver, Waters signed with Duke and played five seasons with the BlueDevils before entering North Carolina State for his final season as a graduate transfer. He wasn’t used much in his first three Duke years, but broke through in 2022 and 23 for 21 starts in 26 games and was named offensive MVP for the latter. All told, Waters logged 333 carries for 1690 yards at 5.1 per tote, with 23 touchdowns. He added 32 receptions for 314 yards and another score.

Waters won the starting role for NCST, but was part of a three-deep rotation. He missed Week 7, lost his starting job and averaged single-digit carries over the final five games. The numbers for his final season were 95 carries for 470 yards and four touchdowns while chipping in 15 catches. 167 yards, and another score.

Has a well put together frame with very good overall athleticism (8.63 RAS). He’s a power back, but not in the traditional sense. Waters doesn’t get behind his pads and drive through tacklers, he has an upright running style. He does run right through arm tackles, but uses his contact balance and slides off/through defenders who don’t get a good piece of him. He keeps his legs churning, spins, and has a good stiff arm.

Even though his running style is reminiscent of a one-cut zone runner, he looks like a fit into the Rams duo and inside zone scheme, showing very good patience and vision to press the line of scrimmage and find the correct holes. As you can see by his 10 yard split, shuttle and 3cone numbers, Waters has strong short area agility, burst, balance, and change of direction. His forty time is pedestrian, but on film, he looks to play much faster. At the college level, he showed the juice to break it outside and get around the corner.

College Football’s Fastest Five of the Week:

1. @DukeFOOTBALL RB Jordan Waters (@jordanwaters_) 21.6 mph #ReelSpeed

: @accnetwork pic.twitter.com/70aANir2iM

— Reel Analytics (@RAanalytics) October 18, 2023​

Ran simple pass routes, predominantly check downs, swings, and screens. Good hand catcher and transitions quickly. Open field running is linear, more swervy than cuts-based. Blocking is okay, good technically, but he plays too upright to really deliver a blow. He’ll get blown up against bigger NFL competition.

Can Jordan Waters make the Rams roster?​

If he was competing with just Cody Schrader and Ronnie Rivers, there might be a case to make at RB#3. But unless something really goes awry with the triumvirate of Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, and Jarquez Hunter, Waters’ only battle will for a practice squad role. That’s just too much draft pedigree to overcome. I couldn’t find any film of him on special teams, something that could raise his chances. He will likely see a lot of work in preseason games.

Jordan Waters played as part of a rotation throughout his career, there’s plenty of tread on those tires. He’s a well-rounded, high effort player that was an effective running back in a good league. He’s flashed on tape and there’s plenty out there to see, but now needs to show that his game can transfer to the pro’s. He turns 25 in December.

Fun fact: L.A. starts 2025 with four players from North Carolina State on the roster: RB Waters, S Tanner Ingle, DT Larrell Muchison, and C Dylan McMahon.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/1/24420961/rams-sign-jordan-waters-running-back

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Falcons’ risky move could net top-5 pick for Rams

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

The Falcons are betting they’ll be good, but the Rams are praying they aren’t

Find someone who believes in you as much as the Atlanta Falcons believe in themselves. The Falcons had a losing record last season, they are handing the offense over to a quarterback with three career starts, the head coach is looking for his first winning season since 2010, and Vegas projected just 7.5 wins in 2025 following a “lackluster” free agency in which the team was also unable to trade Kirk Cousins.

Despite these and other facts about the current state of their franchise, Atlanta was the second-boldest team in the draft by trading a 2026 first round pick to the L.A. Rams in order to double-down on their biggest weakness, edge rushers. General manager Terry Fontenot, who is 0-for-4 in attempts to have a winning season on the job, doesn’t make that move if he believes he has a five-year plan in front of him.

Fearful that his hot seat will explode if the Falcons do not win games immediately (the last GM and HC were fired after an 0-5 start in 2020), Fontenot is betting that the team is good enough to make the playoffs and make fans forget that he traded the future for James Pearce.

I would be willing to take that bet against Fontenot. If he’s wrong, the Rams might not just get a first round pick, but a top-5 pick if the Falcons are every bit as bad as they could possibly be next season.

Here are the reasons that Fontenot’s bet was too risky for Atlanta:​

The Falcons were not a good team in 2024​

It would be a different story if the team making this bet was the Lions, Eagles, or Chiefs. Basically, any franchise that is consistently in the playoffs and wanting to strike twice in the first round. That is not the case in Atlanta and if anything, their 8-9 record was GENEROUS.

"I do like Kirk Cousins, but this isn't personal when I say that they should bench him. I would like to see Michael Penix Jr. get a chance. He can't be worse, it would be almost impossible to be worse."

-Dan on the #Falcons pic.twitter.com/wcfcTH9mEX

— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) December 9, 2024​

Out of eight wins:​

• Swept the Bucs in two close games, one in OT, a team that didn’t win a playoff game
• Beat the Eagles by one point when they didn’t have A.J. Brown
• Did not beat any other teams that had a winning record in 2024
• Split season series against 5-12 teams Carolina and New Orleans
• Beat 4-13 Raiders
• Beat 3-14 Giants
• Beat 7-10 Cowboys

The Falcons are not coming out of a good season, or even really a promising one. They had to bench the quarterback who they invested $90 million guaranteed into, emphasizing a MAJOR weakness in the pro scouting department. They finished 28th in points per drive allowed despite hiring a defensive-minded head coach in Raheem Morris, and their response to that letdown was to fire defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and hire Jeff Ulbrich after he was part of the Jets cleaning house last season.

Maybe the Atlanta Falcons will be a better team in 2025 because of their reactions to their weaknesses, such as switching to Michael Penix, hiring Ulbrich, and investing two first round picks into their defense. That could happen.

That doesn’t change the fact that the Falcons were simply a bad team last season and so if they are the same or worse, they will continue to be a bad team. They will only be a good team if these changes make them A LOT better.

Michael Penix is still a gamble​

You can be the biggest fan of Michael Penix in the world, you’d still have to admit that until the hour that he was drafted eighth overall, there were still countless draft experts who believed he would be a second round pick. Including ESPN’s Matt Miller:

“I have a second-round grade (on Penix). I have him as my No. 36 overall player,” Miller told Seattle Sports’ Brock and Salk on Wednesday. “I’m not one of those people that artificially puts quarterbacks just at the top.”

And Bleacher Report:

Taking Penix at No. 8 is awful resource allocation. It’s also downright atrocious value. The Bleacher Report Scouting Department didn’t even have Penix graded as a first-round prospect. This is a failure on every single level.

And The Athletic, just one of many publications that was skeptical of Penix for reasons that go beyond his injury history, although that’s a potentially huge problem too:

But there are questions here: his age, his health (he’s had multiple leg injuries), his consistency as an accurate passer and the fact Cousins is making a fortune. Penix doesn’t throw the ball over the middle with nearly the same confidence he shows outside the numbers. He’s going to have to figure out better answers versus pressure.

Just because a quarterback is picked in the first round, it does not make him a “first round talent” in the eyes of everybody. That’s still something to be proved. Penix, J.J. McCarthy, and Bo Nix were surprising top-12 picks last year and thus far we’ve only seen Nix have some success.

But if anything, Nix proves that quarterbacks need great coaching and PATIENCE: Going into the last month of the season, Nix was one of the lowest-ranked starting QBs in the NFL by almost any major category.

Then Nix added 19 passing touchdowns to his resume over the last seven games...including 4 against the Falcons in a 38-6 rout, by the way. (And 4 more in a season finale against the Chiefs, in which K.C. didn’t even show up.)

Penix made three starts as a rookie and though expectations must be measured against the circumstances, which is that he was making his NFL debut and on a bad team, we didn’t see anything more than the “tantalizing flashes of talent” that made him a top-10 pick. However, nobody has ever doubted Penix’s ability to flash an elite arm. It’s the weaknesses that scared some teams away from Penix as a first round prospect and there’s no indication yet that Atlanta has fixed those issues.

Through three starts, including two against two of the worst teams in the NFL (Panthers, Giants), Penix finished with 58% completions, 3 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, and a passer rating of 78.9 with two fumbles.

Maybe Penix will emerge as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFC next season:

A Michael Penix moment: pic.twitter.com/x8di4WJkAI

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 30, 2024​

That could happen. But just because it could happen, doesn’t mean that it will happen and we see a lot more prospects underwhelm at the sport’s hardest position than we do see them emerge as stars.

If Penix does not emerge as a star, the Falcons either turn back to Kirk Cousins or bet the farm on Easton Stick and in either case that likely makes Atlanta a team without many wins.

Are they better than their opponents?​

Schedule is often as important as talent in the NFL, and the Falcons draw some of the most talented teams in the NFL next season:

• 10+ win teams: Bucs (2x), Rams, Bills, Commanders, Vikings*, Seahawks
• .500ish teams: Cardinals*, Colts*, Dolphins
• Potential rebound team: 49ers*
• Rest of schedule: Panthers (2x), Saints (2x), Jets, Patriots

*on the road

The Falcons would also qualify as a .500ish team, so they could either get a little better, stay the same, or get worse. In that respect, the Falcons are not any different than the Cardinals, Colts, and Dolphins, three teams that Atlanta might beat next season.

But if the Falcons are not better than they were last season, against this schedule they would just go 7-10 or 8-9 again. Maybe worse.

And if the Falcons start bad, owner Arthur Blank may do what he did in 2020 and just fire everybody again. A team that admits weakness in the middle of the season could just get weaker as the season goes on.

Actually, the Falcons started to look weak immediately after the draft when they were blamed for prank calling prospects such as Shedeur Sanders and the team was fined for it this week:

In the past decade, the Falcons have been fined for:

- $350k + 5th round pick for illegal crowd noise
- $75k + $25k to HC for an injury report violation on Bijan Robinson
- $250k + 5th round pick for tampering with Kirk Cousins
- $250k +$100k to DC for a prank call

— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) April 30, 2025​

Will Atlanta be able to rebound before the season?

The Falcons have the potential of a 12-loss season​

Since finishing 8-9 last season and only beating one team with a winning record outside of the division, the Falcons haven’t given us any reason to expect better.

They have the same head coach, an unproven quarterback, they lost their starting center in free agency (one of the top centers in the NFL), they didn’t address needs at wide receiver, they’re probably going to have to start both rookie edge rushers right away, and even former Ram Morgan Fox is competing for a starting role on the defensive line.

Unless Atlanta gets significant improvement from unexpected places, it would seem that .500ish is the ceiling and bottoming out is the floor:

• 12 losses would likely net a top-10 pick
• 13 losses netted a top-6 pick this past year
• 14 losses is in competition for the top pick in the draft

How far were the Falcons from 12 losses last season when they went 8-9?

If you flipped every win in OT or by 2 points or less, then Atlanta would have been 5-12 last season.

If you also flipped every win by 6 points or less, then the Falcons would have been 2-15.

Other than beating the Panthers 38-20 and the Giants 34-7, Atlanta didn’t have any other convincing wins in the course of the entire season. Yet Fontenot is betting his job — or perhaps losing it — on this trade because he might not see another way out.

How did the Rams trade the 26th pick for this luck?​

Without trading away a top-10 pick or even moving down so a team could go up for a QB, the Rams managed to have arguably the biggest steal of the first round aside from what the Browns were able to get for Travis Hunter.

The Falcons may have traded a top-5 pick for a late first rounder. If so, at least Fontenot won’t be around to have to face the consequences of that bet.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/1/24421756/falcons-rams-trade-first-round-pick

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams-Eagles rematch must open the 2025 season

Kara Durrette/Getty Images

There is no better option to kick off the upcoming NFL campaign

The last time the Los Angeles Rams played the Thursday night NFL season opener, it didn’t fare well. L.A. was blown out 31-10 by the Buffalo Bills, en route to a 5-12 campaign. With the Philadelphia Eagles again on the schedule in 2025, the Rams must get redemption by playing the reigning champs in Week 1.

Both teams are considered Super Bowl contenders in the NFC. There are many reasons to wish for this rematch immediately.

For starters, the Rams were flat-out embarrassed by Saquon Barkley, who rushed for 460 yards in two matchups last season. Playing this game early in the year would create a more even matchup for both sides. January’s Divisional Round game produced snowflakes—and I’m not just talking Philly fans—which allowed the Eagles to pull away before the Rams made it close. Plus, Jared Verse has more boos to soak in from the visiting crowd.

Other compelling reasons include whether the Eagles’ young secondary can contain the Puka Nacua-Davante Adams tandem, and how well Philly replaces departed players and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Philadelphia was historically dominant in back-to-back games to end ‘24, yet L.A. was the lone team to ever give them a fight in the playoffs.

I’d also have to think that the Eagles probably aren’t too happy about Sean McVay saying the Brotherly Shove “doesn’t look like football to me.” And I was calling Philly fans snowflakes?

Despite this rematch being in heavy consideration for Week 1, one other matchup might be a tad more intriguing to schedule makers.

The Eagles finished with the NFC’s No. 2 seed, behind the top-seeded 15-2 Lions, and didn’t face off against each other. Philadelphia has the upper hand versus Detroit in the Dan Campbell era, going 2-0 against them. Detroit lost both of its highly touted coordinators this offseason to head coaching jobs, something I’m sure won’t get talked to death over the summer or anything.

An NFC Championship rematch with the Commanders is also an option. Washington was chased off the field in a 55-23 title game rout. Dan Quinn’s squad should be a force to be reckoned with in the conference with Jayden Daniels under center, especially after another strong offseason and draft.

Even then, Eagles-Lions is likely the NFL season opener. Assuming that ends up being the case, Rams fans will have to wait to see their team get revenge. Hopefully, L.A.’s chance at redemption doesn’t come in a winter wonderland.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/2/24422464/rams-eagles-rematch-2025-season-opener

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Extra first rounder could help Rams as soon as 2025

Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Rams GM Les Snead has even more reason to be aggressive at the trade deadline

Rumors continue to swirl that the Los Angeles Rams are in pursuit of Jalen Ramsey again, but in truth there are bigger and better fish to fry on the trade market if Les Snead has the patience to wait until the season. And because the Rams general manager acquired an extra 2026 first round pick from the Atlanta Falcons in a draft day deal, Snead should be expected to step on the gas pedal to address L.A.’s needs just as he did in 2021.

It’s been four years since the Rams traded a second and third round pick to the Denver Broncos for Von Miller, a key player en route to winning the Super Bowl that season. With an extra first round pick in 2026 in his back pocket, Snead might try to pull off a similar move again in 2025.

And there will be better, younger, cheaper players than Ramsey. Although because of the capital that Snead has in the next draft, and the money saved by re-doing Matthew Stafford’s deal, why not both?

Breer: A trade of CB Jalen Ramsey to Rams would "probably require" Dolphins to pay portion of his $24.2M guaranteed salary.

— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) May 1, 2025​

First round pick is for peace of mind, not to trade​

Although Snead could technically be super aggressive and acquire an elite, young, cost-controlled talent at the cost of a first round pick, that’s not really what the extra pick in 2026 is about. Instead, Snead could feel more comfortable trading a second and/or a third round pick at the deadline for help, just as he did with Miller in 2021.

Of course, Snead is the most aggressive draft pick trader in the NFL:

• 2024: Traded a 2025 second for Braden Fiske
• 2021: Traded two firsts+more for Matthew Stafford
• 2021: Traded a second and third for Miller
• 2019: Traded two firsts for Jalen Ramsey
• And so on and so on

There’s just no question that when a team gives Snead an extra first round pick, he’s going to take that as a dare to not make a big trade soon after.

Which players would be on the table?​

That question requires answers that are entirely speculative and impossible to predict, for the most part, because Snead might need to answer for injuries that we can’t foresee. Of course, there is also the chance that someone like Tyreek Hill (would you have guessed at the beginning of the 2021 season that L.A. would end up needing Odell Beckham?) or Trey Hendrickson would appeal to the Rams’ desire to over-load a premium position.

Not at the cost of a first round pick for either of those examples, mind you.​

But just allow yourself to go beyond the probable and into the possible for a brief second and then I promise you the nightmare will be over: What if it’s October, Tutu Atwell isn’t doing a dang thing, the offense ranks 22nd in scoring, and Hill could be available for a third or fourth round pick?

No GM has more reason to sacrifice a third round pick for veteran help at the deadline, whether that’s Hill, Hendrickson, or someone else who isn’t on the trade block right now, than Snead.

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: The #Bengals allowed Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, with the argument that if a trade brought back a premium pick it might be worth it. There is interest. But it could go either way. pic.twitter.com/jESPJfGuLI

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2025​

Yes, the extra first round pick in 2026 should and probably is there so that the Rams can be ready to pounce on a quarterback.

In addition to that value, the Rams could also use that capital as an excuse to be aggressive at the trade deadline. Assuming that the Falcons are going to be worse than the Rams, it is unlikely that Snead would ever have to offer Atlanta’s pick in any trade. It could be good enough on its own to draft a QB of the future.

In which case if it is, the Rams could always trade down from their own first round pick to acquire more draft capital in the future.

Totally speculative trade ideas​

In seeking out players who could potentially hit the block in the future, they might be in a contract year, overpaid, a little “too old” (but not for one playoff run like Miller and OBJ were), and on bad football teams.

What if the Rams want/need to add an explosive running back to the offense?​

D’Andre Swift was already speculated to be available.

Ben Johnson choosing not to draft a RB to take D’Andre Swift’s job pic.twitter.com/ck8rc8SmtM

— Matt Hicks (@TheFF_Educator) April 26, 2025​

But don’t forget that Alvin Kamara is on a bad team and wouldn’t cost much to acquire if the Saints start to tank. Another potential option is Jonathan Taylor, if the Colts don’t win games early in the season.

“But shouldn’t I hate these players because they’re old, overpaid RBs?”

Not if they are cheap-to-acquire rentals, which they would be.

Could an inside linebacker hit the block?​

The Ravens acquired Roquan Smith before the deadline in 2022 because of a contract dispute and he’s been an MVP for their defense ever since. The cost to get him was only a second round pick, plus a fifth and a player.

Among linebackers who could be on bad teams are Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah of the Browns, Devin Lloyd and Foyesade Oluokun of the Jaguars, Tremaine Edmunds of the Bears, and Pete Werner on the Saints.

It wouldn’t hurt to ask.

There would be other cornerback options​

The Rams could acquire Ramsey. But Marshon Lattimore changed teams last year without much fanfare or a heavy price to pay to acquire him. The Rams were able to take a cheap flier on Emmanuel Forbes and the former first round pick is still on the team.

Unlike offensive tackles, players who are rarely traded, cornerbacks and safeties are in abundance.

To throw one very spicy chili pepper on the meal: The Jets are usually terrible, they’ve traded a lot of young talent in the past, and Sauce Gardner will want a record-breaking contract from a team in the near future. Any team.

This is where the question of “Would Snead trade a first?” come into play.

Will Snead make more trades?​

I mean...probably?

It’s not so much WHO Snead would trade for, or WHEN he would do it, but just the fact that now he has more reason than ever to open up the books IF a key player who could help the team win the Super Bowl becomes available.

When those players hit the trade block, Snead has never, ever said to himself, “But what if these draft picks help us more in the future?” He’s only looking at the next Super Bowl and never past that.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/2/24422497/rams-super-bowl-trade-deadline-falcons

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams sign two UDFA tight ends, can they be of value?

Anthony Torres snags a pass in the end zone | Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images

Mark Redman and Anthony Torres have a different skill set than the incumbents

While most of the Los Angeles Rams tight end talk centers around using their first selection (#46) on Terrance Ferguson, L.A. did add two interesting undrafted free agents at the position. Mark Redman, out of Louisville and Anthony Torres from Toledo, their additions mark a change from the Rams usual preferences, they’re not receiver-first tight ends and while both do show good hands, blocking is their strong suit.

Redman and Torres join Ferguson, starter Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson, and Davis Allen to fill out the room. Last season, the Rams kept three on the active roster, Parkinson, Allen, and Hunter Long, when Higbee returned from injury in December they bumped up to four. Nikola Kalinic and Miller Forristall stayed on the practice squad all season.

Mark Redman- Louisville 6’ 6” 263 lb. 32 1/4” arms 9 3/4” hands ​

Pro Day: 1.66/4.95 forty - 7.25 shuttle - 4.52 3cone - 32” vert - 9’ 4” broad - 21 bench

West coast kid. One of the top tight end recruits in the nation, originally signed with Washington, Spent two seasons in the Northwest 2020 and 2021, seeing use on special teams while playing in all 16 games he was eligible and earning one start. Coaching changes at UW prompted Redman to jump to San Diego State and he started 25 of 26 games for the Aztecs logging 59 catches for 641 yards and five scores. Joined Louisville for his final year of eligibility and started 12 of 13 games with 24 catches, 256 yards and three touchdowns.

As a receiver, Redman was used on simple routes, button hooks, outs to the flat, and wheels off those flat outs. Louisville also used him on hash-to-hash drags against mis-direction quite often with success. Good hands, snatches away from his body, and good hand/eye coordination. Shows fair body control on errant passes. Transitions quickly, but doesn’t offer much juice running after the catch.

Technically sound blocker, but not a thumping play style. Redman has good feet and consistently seals off his 1on1 blocks, staying between his man and the ball carrier whether downfield or at the line of scrimmage. His length is not elite but he strikes first, clamps on and understands leverage. Good on combo blocks, stays engaged on his double teams and moves smoothly off and up to the next level.

Redman is a fairly polished prospect, was on the John Mackey Award watchlist twice for best tight end in the nation. His athleticism is adequate for his big frame with natural skills and is a smooth and fluid mover. He was a top college recruit, stood out in smaller conference and made the step-up in competition. Some real hard work in a pro strength program, particularly lower body, could make him a keeper.

Mark Redman 2024 Regular Season Highlights | Louisville TE https://t.co/FHP0tBlVu0 via @YouTube

— Venie Randy Soares (@VenieSoares) May 3, 2025​

Anthony Torres- Toledo 6’ 7” 251 lb. 33 1/2” arms 10 1/8” hands​

Pro Day: 1.72/4.72 forty- 7.18 shuttle - 4.44 3cone - 34” vert - 9’ 10” broad - 19 bench

Lightly recruited until making the rounds of college summer camps before his high school senior season, he was a hit at an Iowa camp and offered a scholarship. He injured his back during that workout to the point that Torres not only missed his final high school season, his comeback would take three years.

Although Iowa was willing to honor the commitment, they were honest about his standing and Torres decided to stay closer to home, attending Western Michigan. He spent four seasons with the Broncos, the first three dealing with his back woes and COVID19. In year four, he had worked his way to starter by season’s end.

In 2022, Torres transferred to Toledo. He played in every game as a backup in his initial season and took over as starter in his final two, garnering All-MAC honors in both. His stats as a Rocket were 62 catches for 932 yards and 12 scores, over 41 games. He was named to the 2024 Hula Bowl.

Long-legged and lanky with good athleticism (7.50 RAS score) for the NFL. Very good arm length with big hands. As his 3cone and 10 yard split numbers attest, on tape Torres is a bit heavy-footed and not the most flexible getting off the snap and into routes. He does possess good change of direction and buildup speed.

Comfortably works both inline and the slot. Torres shows good technique and drive as a blocker. Consistently squares well, gets his hands on defenders chest plate, and clamps on in pass blocking. Has the power to move out opponents on drive blocks, uses good footwork and arm length to reach and seal. He strikes well in space and stays sticky through the whistle.

Although Torres needs work clearing off the snap, he has very good hands, ball tracking, and the body control to corral off mark throws. The lack of early separation has forced him to be very good in traffic, on contested catches, and through contact. As is often the case with lower tiered college programs, a very limited route tree. Mostly underneath stuff, but when he gets those long legs stretched out, Torres could challenge the seams and wheels/fades down the sidelines.

Torres has a great back story about overcoming adversity and he too, brings a fairly polished game to the Rams. A solid athlete, a competitive nature, and a team captain. He’s also older after seven years of college ( 26 in October) and very well grounded with a Masters Degree and marriage vows.

First career touchdown for Toledo tight end Anthony Torres off another from Dequan Finn

pic.twitter.com/voJtmwwcCY

— Oliver Hodgkinson (@ojhodgkinson) October 21, 2023​

Can Redman and/or Torres make the Rams roster?​

One of the first things that jumped out to me after watching a couple of Redman’s games was how much his game reminded me of Colby Parkinson’s. Now I’m not clamoring for Redman to be TE#2, just saying there’s similarity in their play styles. Parkinson has proven NFL talent and Redman is a prospect with play strength work to do. He’ll have OTAs and training camp to show if he’s got what it takes.

Torres has the edgier, more physical game of the two. He’s a very nice package of blocking and receiving. He too needs some strength work, but certainly wields the physicality needed in the pro’s. He’s had three years back since overcoming a serious back problem, how much weight should that carry?

Two good looking prospects on tape with varying play styles. Redman in the smoother West Coast style and Torres in the more physical Northeast mode. Both are effective. In the past, the Rams haven’t given a second thought to playing undrafted free agents at tight end. But this 2025 unit has three experienced returnees and top draft pick.

How the Rams use Terrance Ferguson will have likely have a direct effect on Redman and Torres. If used mainly out side, as a slot receiver, the two UDFA’s blocking abilities may find a need. If Ferguson is used as tight ends of the L.A. past, they start way behind in a numbers game.

Most likely, the best to expect is a berth on the practice squad, but these are two promising young prospects. I expect them to get a lot of preseason game reps after OTAs and training camp. They will get plenty of work to show they belong.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/3/24422565/rams-sign-mark-redman-anthony-torres

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

The Rams have mislead us about this idea before

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Rams say they plan to run more 12 personnel after drafting Terrance Ferguson, but we’ve heard that before

We hear this message each offseason from the Los Angeles Rams and have rarely seen it backup up:

“We plan to deploy more 12 personnel this year.”

Once again that is the message from Sean McVay after his team selected Oregon TE Terrance Ferguson in the second round. Ferguson can be both the heir apparent to veteran Tyler Higbee and be deployed short-term on the field at the same time, at least according to their plan.

But we’ve seen this movie before, and that should give us pause about McVay’s plan for his rookie tight end:

2017 - Rams drafted Gerald Everett in second round​

McVay cut his teeth coaching TE’s with the Washington Redskins. It made sense that his first pick with the Rams would be at the same position, but the plan went awry when Cooper Kupp—selected one round later—emerged as the third receiving option and was simply good to take off the field. LA ran 11 personnel (one TE) on 83% of their plays in 2017. Everett had his shining moments over the next four years but the fundamental structure of the offense never really changed to maximize both he and Higbee.

2024 - Signing Colby Parkinson only for him to become third-string TE​

I understood why the Rams would make a splash at TE over last offseason with Tyler Higbee rehabbing a knee injury suffered in the team’s only playoff game. What I disagreed with was signing a third-string player from the Seattle Seahawks. Paying an individual like a starter doesn’t make him a starter, and the Rams watched Colby Parkinson quickly fall behind Higbee after his return and compete for playing time with Hunter Long and Davis Allen.

These are the 12 personnel percentages and rankings for the Rams over the last three seasons according to SumerSports:

2022 - 6.6%; 29th OVR

2023 - 4.8%; 32nd OVR

2024 - 13.9%; 28th OVR

While the Rams had a significant uptick from 2022 and 2023 to 2024 in how often they deploy 12 personnel, this mostly evidences how far behind they were compared to the rest of the NFL. By doubling their rate of this personnel grouping, they moved up only a couple of spots out of 32 teams.

Will we really see more 12 personnel this year?​

Sean McVay will almost always take the path of least resistance, which is part of the reason he’s been so successful as a NFL head coach.

If Tutu Atwell is able to produce at a high level and create opportunities for Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, then we could realistically see the Rams keep with their heavy deployment of 11 personnel. Atwell has the biggest opportunity of his NFL career in front of him and can become a force multiplier by taking the top off the defense and allowing Adams and Nacua to work underneath.

But if Atwell struggles or the receiving corps isn’t performing up to their potential, this could possibly be the first season we see the Rams throw out the 11 personnel playbook and usher in a new era of Rams football. While you can hand waive Parkinson’s talents, you probably can’t deny that Higbee, Ferguson, Parkinson, and Allen is the Rams’ most talented TE room we’ve seen in recent history. More 12 personnel would help LA in the running game and would change their fundamental approach to offense.

It’s possible this is the most unique year of Rams offensive football we see in the Sean McVay era, though we’ve heard this idea multiple times in the past.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/3/24423125/rams-tyler-higbee-terrance-ferguson-te

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Revisiting the Kyren Williams situation

Joseph Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Will the Rams extend Kyren Williams?

It was reported earlier this offseason that the Los Angeles Rams and Kyren Williams were in conversation about a potential extension as the running back enters his final season on his rookie deal. It appears both sides are still far apart in negotiations and after drafting Jarquez Hunter with the 117th overall pick in this year’s draft, Williams and his agent may not have much to stand on as talks continue.

Jordan Rodrigue of the Atlantic reported before the NFL Draft that “Agreeing to terms could take time. Snead said that no contract this offseason won’t necessarily mean no contract at all where Williams is concerned, even if that means he plays out the final season on his existing deal.”

It seems likely that Williams will have to bet on himself and play through his final year after a mixed performance in 2024. He finished the season with 1299 yards rushing on 316 carries (the third highest attempts by a RB) but also only ran for 15+ yards six times and nearly led the league in fumbles (5) behind New England Patriot’s running back Rhamondre Stevenson (7). It is worth noting that he did finish tied for fifth in rushing touchdowns with 14 on the season and 81.2 yards per game.

Dawg: Rams RB Kyren Williams does NOT think he’s reached his peak yet despite back-to-back 1.1K rushing seasons:

“I don't feel like I've touched my peak yet. I've gotten to where I wanted to be, but I'm determined to make this my best season.”

Kyren wants to make HISTORY in the… pic.twitter.com/czO7mCF2mQ

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 4, 2025​

He may not get the same number of opportunities to prove himself with the addition of Hunter. When talking about the pick, Les Snead had this to say in an interview with Rich Eisen,

“We do think the way this NFL season’s going — the amount of wear and tear that goes into playing running back — that having a committee, and a committee with different skill sets, only helps us continue being able to run the football like we want to run it.”

Blake Corum will be back after fracturing his right forearm in the finale against the Seattle Seahawks last season and should be able to build off his rookie campaign. Corum had just 58 attempts in 2024 but was able to move up the depth chart to backup Williams by the end of the season. There were flashes of explosiveness from the rookie that could get him more time in 2025.

Hunter should bring a different style to the running back room with 4.4 speed and a different kind of elusiveness than the other two RB’s ahead of him. He will likely also cut into William’s playing time if he can get up to speed with the playbook this offseason.

Rams RBs in their 2024 seasons...

Kyren Williams
+ 0.13 MTF/Att (49th/70 RBs)
+ 1.9% explosive % (57th)
+ 4.65 40

Blake Corum
+ 0.14 MTF/Att (40th/70 RBs)
+ 0% explosive % (70th)
+ 4.53 40
---
JARQUEZ HUNTER
+ 0.32 MTF/Att (5th/32 RBs)
+ 12.4% explosive % (3rd)
+ 4.40 40

— Dataroma (@ffdataroma) May 2, 2025​

The Rams have switched up their philosophy in regard to how they handle the running back room. After signing Todd Gurely to a $60 million contract extension in 2018, they cut him in 2019 after a drop in performance and took a sizeable hit to their cap-space because of it. Instead of investing a large sum to the position, Snead has drafted a running back in each year of the draft in hopes of hitting on a talented player and get the most of them on a rookie-scale deal. Williams is the first to be worth extending since Gurley was on the team, but even then, it wouldn’t surprise me if LA decides to let him test the market next offseason and bet on the development of Corum and Hunter for the future.

What would you do if you were in Snead’s shoes? Are you signing Williams to an extension this offseason or let him earn his contract during the regular season? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/4/24423803/los-angeles-rams-kyren-williams

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

A hater’s review of NFC West offseasons

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

What did the Cardinals, 49ers, Rams, and Seahawks get wrong in free agency and the draft?

Teams that win offseasons in March through May rarely find themselves atop the standings when the calendar flips to December and January.

Free agent signings commonly become expensive anchors against the salary cap. Draft picks are fifty-fifty propositions in the first round and the odds of hitting get worse as the order progresses. Every year we spend the spring chatting about the largest acquisitions, but the player that wins your fantasy team probably came via the waiver wire.

It’s time to take off the rose-colored glasses and instead replace them with the hater goggles. These are the major moves for each team in the NFC West and why they are destined to now work out:

Arizona Cardinals​

Drafting a slow, injured corner in the second round​

It was honestly surprising watching Michigan’s Will Johnson fall out of the first round. The rumor mill suggests that he has a degenerative knee issue that could limit the length of his NFL career, and that’s especially concerning for a player whose biggest question mark through the draft process was a potential lack of speed. The margin of error seems slim for this pick. What happens if Johnson loses even a half of step from the height of his athletic powers?

Neglecting the offense​

Sure, Kyler Murray got his fair share of new toys a year ago headlined by Marvin Harrison, Jr. In the NFL, if you assume key parts of the roster will continue its upward trajectory while turning your attention to another, you are almost sure to be disappointed. This is a league of parity and there are invisible forces constantly pulling you back toward average. Could we see Arizona take a step forward on defense while regressing on offense?

Just how good can the Arizona Cardinals defense be in 2025 under Nick Rallis? pic.twitter.com/qcQKYK5wp1

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) May 3, 2025​

The Cardinals are still the Cardinals​

Arizona has made the playoffs a single time since they drafted Kyler Murray in 2019, and the Rams convincingly bounced them in the first round. I like most of what the Cardinals have done over the last few offseasons, but I can’t trust them to perform on the biggest stages. I’ll have to see it in order to believe it.

Los Angeles Rams​

Are we sure hitching the wagon to Matthew Stafford is a good idea?​

It didn’t take a genius to expect significant statistical regression for Stafford after his standout 2023 performance. In fact, I all but called it ahead of last season. The major question is whether this is a sign of decline for an aging player or a return to career averages.

Sean McVay could take nearly any starting caliber quarterback in the NFL and lead him to a career-best season.

LA has a blossoming roster filled with young talent. If Stafford declines beyond his drop last season, the whole system could be thrown into jeopardy.

The Rams didn’t address their most obvious offseason need​

Am I supposed to feel good about a cornerback room that includes Darious Williams, Cobie Durant, Ahkello Witherspoon, Derion Kendrick, and Emmanuel Forbes? Don’t tell be Jalen Ramsey is going to fix every thing, as he’s on the wrong side of age 30 and not the player he was when he left Los Angeles.

The easiest answer to neutralize a pass rush is a quick passing game, which we saw teams exploit over and over again towards the end of Aaron Donald’s career. Given the state of LA’s secondary, why wouldn’t teams just dust off that game plan during Rams week?

San Francisco 49ers​

The 49ers haven’t paid Brock Purdy because deep down they know it’s a bad idea​

In the same vein of the idea that McVay could make just about every quarterback look better, Kyle Shanahan also deserves to be in the conversation. He went to Super Bowls with Jimmy Garoppolo and Brock Purdy.

$50M per year is an enormous price tag for a player who shined with an all-star supporting cast and then took a major step backwards when the unit around him deteriorated. Purdy is a fine quarterback if your goal is to make the playoffs most years. He simply won’t be the right guy if you truly aspire to win a championship.

There is some chatter that a Brock Purdy-49ers extension is far from complete.

But the sense I get is that they're closer than we think — just look at Purdy's presence at San Francisco's OTAs as evidence: https://t.co/tQugXdBtyw pic.twitter.com/iGwyOwRNnt

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) May 2, 2025​

They would have traded Brandon Aiyuk if someone else wanted their damaged goods​

Receiver trade rumors is becoming a tradition for San Francisco. This year they made good by shipping Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. They probably would have said happy trails to Brandon Aiyuk as well other than for the fact it’s not certain the veteran will be healthy in time for the 2025 season. Don’t get me wrong, Aiyuk is a great player and schematic fit for the 49ers; however, no sound of mind team would give up significant capital for a player who may not be ready to play in September.

49ers took an EDGE rusher 11th overall that isn’t a proven pass rusher​

A lot of draft analysts that I respect admire Mykel Williams. Yes, the Georgia defense doesn’t put players in a position to pin their ears back and go get the quarterback. Still, if I were to draft an EDGE defender in the first half of the first round, I want to know that he can generate pressures at a high level.

We’ve seen this prototype fail to live up to expectations time and time again. Run-first EDGE’s simply aren’t worth taking as early as the 49ers selected Williams.

Seattle Seahawks​

You have to admire that Seattle isn’t afraid to fail​

The Seahawks traded away Geno Smith and DK Metcalf. Sure, they replaced them with Sam Darnold and Cooper Kupp who are probably more short-term fixes.

It may all blow up spectacularly for Mike MacDonald and John Schneider. The roster math might look better on paper than it does on the field. I still appreciate that their approach to the offseason was refreshing. Out with the old, in with the new even if for only the sake of change.

Lettin' it fly. @JalenMilroe @arroyo_elijah36 pic.twitter.com/nfBw6vJ7tu

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) May 5, 2025​

What is this receiver room?​

Seattle already had slot receiver in Jaxson Smith-Njigba, who came on strong towards the end of last season. They brought in a somewhat similar player in Cooper Kupp, although you’d think Kupp would be best-suited to play inside in the final stages of his career.

The vertical threat for the offense if Marquez Valdes-Scantling who hasn’t been able to produce consistently despite catching passes from Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes for most of his career. Tory Horton and Jake Bobo aren’t players who scare you from an athleticism standpoint.

Are we sure about this one?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/5/24424557/rams-nfc-west-49ers-cardinals-seahawks

 

[monster_masterpiece]

It could be for example a new feature for the team.

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Reunion with this defensive back an option for Rams?

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images

Robert Rochell started his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams and he’s available again

Robert Rochell was recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs making Rochell a free agent, and he should have some options, but maybe he’d like to rejoin the team that drafted him back in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams.

UPDATE

The #Chiefs have released CB Robert Rochell.

Per, @MattDerrick. pic.twitter.com/zYOtE9rWls

— Chiefs Blitz (@ChiefsBlitz) May 6, 2025

Rochell was taken in the fourth round by the Rams, and though he was hurt during the Rams’ Super Bowl winning season, Rochell was still on the team before being released in August of ‘23.

Rochell has since moved around from the Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers, Green Bay Packers and most recently the Chiefs.

Rochell has 48 games of NFL experience to go along with 22 solo tackles, three fumble recoveries, and one interception. If a team needs a veteran body in their defensive back room, then Rochell could be the perfect candidate.

Robert Rochell is a very good pick. Another guy I tabbed for the Rams in Snead’s Snacks if you were following along. pic.twitter.com/vP92cDCnwU

— Blaine Grisak (@bgrisakTST) May 1, 2021

If the Rams aren’t able to add Jalen Ramsey, then Rochell may be a solid addition.

Of course, who knows the amount of money Rochell could command, and who knows how in a hurry he is to sign with another team as he could wait for the season to get closer before making a decision.

Same thing for the Rams as they may want to see if something does happen with Ramsey, and they may want to see how their secondary looks in training camp before rushing into adding more players.

File this one away in the “Food for thought Category” in the NFL free agency zone.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/6/24424800/rams-robert-rochell-nfl-free-agent

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams had another tight end in mind

Photo by Ella Hall/LSU/University Images via Getty Images

Would Rams have drafted Mason Taylor if they could have?

If the Rams did not get the chance to draft Terrance Ferguson in the second round after trading down with the Atlanta Falcons, they would have been just as happy with a different tight end, that being LSU’s Mason Taylor. This according to some post-draft rumors that were posted on ESPN this week, suggesting that not only would Les Snead have taken Taylor if Ferguson was off the board, but that L.A. was once again toying with trading into the top-10.

The Rams traded out of the first round with two tight ends in mind — Oregon’s Terrance Ferguson and LSU’s Mason Taylor. They would have been happy with either player, but one team source insists Ferguson was top in that order, so he would have been the pick if Taylor had been there. (Taylor went four spots earlier to the Jets.)

Los Angeles had trade talks with teams in the top 10, but in the end the price of that jump would have been too steep.

The Rams reportedly would have still picked Ferguson over Taylor if both were available (although, what else would “the leaker” say after the draft has already happened?) but what would Snead have done if both tight ends were gone by pick 46?

The next tight end drafted was Miami’s Elijah Arroyo, who went 50th overall to the Seattle Seahawks. Arroyo was the last tight end of the second round, until the Browns picked Bowling Green’s Harold Fannin at the top of the third round.

But were the Rams interested in trading up for one of the top tight ends in the first round?

Just a year ago, rumors persisted of L.A. trying to move up to get Brock Bowers (a player who happened to also break Puka Nacua’s rookie receptions record) and now ESPN is reporting that they had talks with teams in the top-10. The Bears picked Colston Loveland 10th overall, while Penn State’s Tyler Warren fell to the Colts at 14.

It is probably better than Snead hesitated to trade up because now instead of sacrificing a first round pick for a tight end, he has two first round picks in 2026 and still got a tight end to develop with his first pick.

Ferguson and Taylor had almost identical yardage totals in 2024 (591 for Ferguson compared to 546 for Taylor, both in 12 games) and Ferguson is one year older than Taylor. They are also roughly the same size.

Sean McVay, a former tight ends coach, now gets a player to develop in the hopes of replacing Tyler Higbee by 2026. The Rams were rumored to be equally interested if either of them fell to 46, now they just have to hope that their evaluations of the prospects were accurate.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/7/24425659/rams-rumors-draft-tight-end-in-mind

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Which Rams running back should feel more pressure from Jarquez Hunter?

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Jarquez Hunter brings a new dimension to the Rams’ backfield, but whose role is he about to shake up?

It wasn’t necessarily a surprise when the Los Angeles Rams selected a running back in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Rams have drafted a running back every year that Sean McVay has been the head coach. In addition, while the Rams had a strong running game last year, it lacked a lot of variety. It’s great to have a running game that can keep an offense on schedule. At the same time, having a running back that can make plays in space and create explosives can take an offense to another level.

This is what the Rams running game has lacked consistently. Kyren Williams does a great job keeping the offense on schedule. He ranked 14th in rushing success rate last season among running backs with at least 200 carries. At the same time, he consistently only gets what’s blocked for him. Williams finished with exactly 0 rushing yards over expected. Williams also finished 22nd among 23 running backs in explosive run rate. All of this is known.

When the Rams drafted Blake Corum last year, it was an overcorrection to a problem from the year prior. Without Williams in the lineup, the Rams offense struggled and was not able to produce consistently from a rushing perspective. The Rams tried Royce Freeman and Darrell Henderson and both were unable to provide the same spark that Williams could. To prevent that, Corum was drafted as a Kyren Williams clone. On draft night, McVay spoke about Corum matching a lot of what Williams gives them.

Having similar profiles in players can be a good thing, especially in the case of injury. However, it’s also possible to have too much of one thing and that’s what happened when the Rams drafted Corum. Williams remained healthy last season and therefore Corum didn’t see much playing time. In his 58 carries, he didn’t create a single explosive play and his 3.57 yards per carry ranked 59th out of 70 running backs. His 1.66 yards after contact ranked 69th.

Instead of a thunder and lightning duo, the Rams had thunder and thunder. They had two running backs with near-identical skill sets.

Again, it’s no surprise that the Rams drafted a running back. However, taking one in the fourth round may have been earlier than some were expecting. Still, the Rams needed variety in their running back room and that’s part of what makes Jarquez Hunter so exciting.

When the Rams drafted Kyren Williams in the fifth round, the plan always seemed to be to use him and Cam Akers as a tandem. Williams’ injury in 2021 and then the Akers drama in 2023 derailed that. While Hunter is a limited, scheme-specific version of Akers, he brings the same 4.4-speed, one-cut decisiveness, and physical running style.

In the areas that Williams struggles, Hunter thrives. The now Rams rookie had the second-highest career explosive run rate in this draft class, ranked 11th in yards after contact last season, and his 48 percent breakaway percentage ranked 10th in the FBS. Those are all areas in which Williams lacks.

The Hunter selection provides the Rams a lot of flexibility. In a sense, it is a course-correction from last year when they selected Corum. That isn’t to say that Corum is a bust or won’t have a future role in the offense. With that said, it became clear as the season progressed in 2024 that the Rams lacked variety in the backfield. Much of that issue in particular goes back to the selection of Corum and the overreaction to ensure that the running game could succeed without Williams.

Additionally, it gives the Rams options when it comes to the extension of Williams. While the Rams would like to have Williams on the Rams long-term, they are also going to have a price. It’s unlikely that they pay him $14-million per season and spend that much at running back. For as important as Williams has been in the offense, he also isn’t a game-changing type running back like Todd Gurley, Saquon Barkley, or Christian McCaffrey.

In the case that the Rams can’t come to an agreement with Williams, the addition of Hunter allows the offense to have a player in waiting to take over. The Rams can go from a duo of Williams and Hunter to Corum and Hunter and keep a similar dynamic in the backfield. Hunter gives the Rams some leverage when it comes to negotiations with Williams. They aren’t forced into a situation in which they have to re-sign Williams to an extension.

Hunter seeing the field early all comes down to how he develops in pass protection. This is something that Blake Corum struggled with and is a reason why he only got 58 carries as a rookie. There’s a reason why Williams led the NFL in pass-blocking reps with 153. If Hunter can show enough in pass protection, he could surpass Corum. However, McVay has tended to not play rookie running backs for this reason. Darrell Henderson had 39 carries as a rookie while running behind an injured Todd Gurley. Cam Akers managed 145 rushing attempts as a rookie, but 86 of those came in the final five weeks of 2019.

Jarquez Hunter #Auburn

As with most NFL prospects at RB, pass pro is the final frontier...

Hunter's two areas of opportunity for improvement:

- Setting too early
- Overextending

Both lead to tipping off the defender. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/1E5tR8SQOs

— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) January 27, 2025​

It’s unlikely that Hunter threatens Williams as a rookie, but if he develops in pass protection, the Auburn running back could eat into some of Williams’ carries. That may not be a bad thing as Williams ranked third in the NFL in carries last season with 316. Only Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley had more. Williams is never going to be a home-run threat, but being able to keep him fresh during games may end up being beneficial.

Still, in the immediate, the player most at threat of losing touches to Hunter is Corum. As outlined previously, Corum seems more like a backup to Williams than a complementary piece to the running game. That doesn’t mean that Corum is a bust or doesn’t deserve carries. However, his skillset is simply very similar to Williams. If Hunter can be reliable in the passing game, specifically in pass protection, that will earn him playing time over Corum.

The addition of Hunter isn’t necessarily about replacing Williams or a negative on Corum. It is more about adding another flavor to the running back room and giving the team flexibility. Hunter also allows McVay to see out his vision in a sense of what he wanted with an Akers-Williams duo that was never seen out.

Depending on how Hunter plays in 2025, the Rams may feel comfortable with a duo of him and Corum. That may have an effect on a potential Williams extension. In the meantime, Williams is still going to be a big part of the offense.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/8/24426181/rams-running-back-depth-chart-jarquez-hunter

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Do the Rams still have a need at wide receiver?

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Should the Rams kick the tires on wide receiver Gabe Davis?

With the primary window of free agency and the NFL Draft complete, the Los Angeles Rams roster heading into the summer is mostly set. While they could still sign a player like Jedrick Wills or trade for Jalen Ramsey, the Rams have already mostly prioritized what they felt were the biggest needs of the offseason. At this point, we should have a pretty good idea of how the Rams feel about certain position groups on the roster.

That doesn’t mean that every need has been filled. The Rams could still use some help in the secondary as well as some tackle depth. However, those aren’t positions that the Rams prioritized in the offseason, meaning they may feel better about those spots than those outside the organization.

ESPN’s Aaron Schatz looked at what he considers the biggest hole on each roster following the draft. As Schatz noted, “At this point in the offseason, a roster hole does not necessarily mean the position group has no clear starters. Most teams have filled the top of their depth charts. But plenty of units have limited depth.” That position group for the Rams according to Schatz is wide receiver. Said Schatz,

“Davante Adams was a huge addition, but the departures of Cooper Kupp and Demarcus Robinson produced a net loss of one starting wide receiver. Tutu Atwell is now the No. 3 option. He had a solid 2024 with 11.7% receiving DVOA to go with 42 catches for 562 yards, but he’s not regarded as a starting option around the league. And the depth behind him is poor. Jordan Whittington had 22 catches for 293 yards as a sixth-round rookie in 2024, but Xavier Smith had only two catches for 6 yards. The Rams didn’t draft a receiver until selecting Konata Mumpfield in Round 7. Los Angeles might not need a No. 3 receiver that often, though, as drafting Terrance Ferguson in Round 2 indicates more two-TE personnel groupings.”

There is certainly some concern when it comes to the Rams wide receiver depth. This isn’t a group that’s as deep as it has been in previous years under Sean McVay. The Rams opted not to bring back Demarcus Robinson and released Cooper Kupp. While they signed Davante Adams, they also seem to be hoping for players like Tutu Atwell and Jordan Whittington to take on larger roles.

To an extent that may seem like a risk as the Rams have been hoping for a step forward from Atwell for four seasons. Additionally, Whittington only saw limited playing time as a rookie. With that said, both players were the primary receiving options last season when both Kupp and Puka Nacua were injured.

During those games, Atwell was ninth in the NFL in yards per route with 2.61 while Whittington was 20th at 2.12. Atwell was also 18th in targets per route while Whittington was 23rd. Throughout McVay’s tenure, the Rams have done a really good job ensuring that their receivers are ready when their number is called.

While there is optimism for Whittington and Atwell, neither have shown that they can sustain that level over the course of a season. Even if the Rams do go to more 12 personnel packages, the Las Vegas Raiders led the NFL in 12 personnel rate at 35.5 percent. For the Rams, on the high end in estimations, they may end up in the 17 percent to 28 percent range. The NFL is still an 11 personnel league.

Earlier this week, the Jacksonville Jaguars released wide receiver Gabe Davis. Davis may not have had the success that some expected after leaving the Buffalo Bills. However, he is still a quality depth wide receiver. During his time with the Bills, Davis showed the ability to be a plus-blocker, can line up and win outside, and is simply experienced depth that the Rams don’t currently have.

Good WR blocking is sooooo underrated! @BuffaloBills Gabe Davis making his presence felt without touching a ball. #BUFvsMIA pic.twitter.com/1fLwDFTfEe

— Kevin Kelley (@coachkelley1) January 8, 2024​

This isn’t to say that the Rams should kick the tires on Davis, but he would make some sense if they want to add some depth at this point in the offseason. However, adding Davis may also mean opportunities get taken away from Atwell and Whittington. The Rams likely trust the players that they currently have in the building.

The Rams have done a good job developing wide receivers and a lot of that has to do with Eric Yarber. Konata Mumpfield may not be the most exciting name, but he is a great fit for the Rams offense as a crafty route-runner. The Rams also have some promising undrafted free agents.

If the Rams get into a spot where they suffer an injury or two at the position, signing someone like Davis is something that they would have to consider. For the time being, there is a lot to like with the players currently in that position group.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/9/24426938/rams-depth-chart-offseason-needs-wide-receiver

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Will Josaiah Stewart push for playing time over Byron Young?

Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

How much playing time will Josaiah Stewart get as a rookie in Rams defense?

The Los Angeles Rams are considered to have one of the best young pass rushes in the NFL. A big reason for that has been Byron Young who has done nothing but impress since being drafted in the third round in 2023. As a rookie, Young finished with eight sacks which was just one fewer than Kobie Turner. Young followed up his rookie campaign with another impressive 7.5 sack season in 2024.

An initial look would suggest that Young has had two impressive seasons to start his NFL career and that wouldn’t be wrong. Young has served his role extremely well since the Rams drafted him. Taken as an older, more developed prospect, Young hit the ground running and has become an important piece of the Rams pass rush. After moving on from players like Leonard Floyd, the Rams didn’t just need cheaper, younger talent, but talent that could contribute right away. That’s exactly what Young has been able to do.

At the same time, two years into Young’s career, it’s fair to wonder how much more untapped potential is available. As I wrote last summer, it’s worth wondering if Young has hit his ceiling. With most rookie edge rushers, especially those taken in the third round, many would be elated with 15.5 sacks worth of production over two years. That’s obviously extremely impressive. However, when the Rams took Young out of Tennessee, they did so knowing that his ceiling wasn’t as high as other mid-round edge rushers. As a 25-year old prospect, Young was being drafted as a player that was more ready and could handle starting right away.

While Young has had 15.5 sacks over the last two years, it is important to add context to those stats. Out of Young’s 15.5 sacks, 11 of those have come in Weeks 1-11. Contrarily, Young has hit a wall in each of his first two seasons. In Weeks 12-18, Young has just 4.5 sacks. To put that in perspective, Young has 0.55 sacks per game in Weeks 1-11 compared to 0.32 sacks per game in Weeks 12-18.

It’s not just the sack production that has faltered for Young late in the year. Young went from a 12.7 percent win rate and 11.6 pass rush productivity in 2023 in Weeks 1-11 to a 9.1 percent win rate and just 4.8 pass rush productivity in Weeks 12-18 via PFF. It was the same story last year. Young started the year strong with a win rate of 12.4 percent and pass rush productivity of 9.5 in Weeks 1-11 to a win rate of 9.2 percent and pass rush productivity of 5.3 in Weeks 12-18. For clarity, pass rush productivity is a formula from PFF that combines sacks, hits, and hurries relative to how many times the player rushes the passer.

A player hitting a rookie wall isn’t uncommon and it was seen with Jared Verse this past season. Verse didn’t have a sack from Weeks 11-18. However, his win rate remained 20 percent which was about the same as his win rate of 19.2 percent in Weeks 1-11. The pass rush production was still there even if the sacks weren’t.

This is partially what makes the selection of edge rusher Josaiah Stewart so interesting in the NFL Draft. While the Rams do overload frequently with three edge rushers on passing downs, having the ability to rotate and keep Young fresh could have an impact on his production over the course of a season.

Not only do Stewart and Young have a similar undersized build, but the third round pick out of Michigan led the FBS in pass rush win rate last season at 27.7 percent. His 11.4 pass rush productivity also was inside the top-10 at number nine. Stewart has an advanced pass rush arsenal and has a savviness to his game which should help him contribute immediately. While the Rams made it work with Michael Hoecht as the third edge rusher, that was never his natural position as much as he embraced that role. Stewart is much more natural and should be able to not only play in the Cheetah package, but hopefully take some pressure off of Young as the lone complement to Verse.

This isn’t to say that Stewart should or will replace Young during his rookie season. However, Young played the fifth-most defensive snaps in 2023 and seventh-most last season. Only Quentin Lake and Kam Curl in the secondary played more snaps for the Rams defense in 2024.

It’s important to temper expectations when it comes to rookies, but the hope will be for Stewart to show enough during the offseason program that he earns playing time. If that happens, the Rams can keep a fresh rotation of pass rushers and that includes Young.

Additionally, Stewart should give the Rams some flexibility post-2025 and 2026. With as many stars as the Rams have defensively, it will be impossible for them to re-sign everybody. When it comes to Young, Verse, Turner, and Braden Fiske, the Rams are going to have to make some difficult decisions.

This past offseason, Josh Sweat got $19 million per year from the Arizona Cardinals. Harold Landry also got $14 million per year from the New England Patriots. It’s unlikely that the Rams will get close to those numbers with Turner and Verse also needing contracts. Stewart may play in a more rotational role over the next two years, but ideally he is able to step in Young’s role once his contract is up after 2026.

It’s going to be interesting what the Rams pass rush rotation on the edge looks like in 2025. The Rams drafted Stewart and will also hope for Brennan Jackson and Nick Hampton to take a step forward. Whatever the rotation ends up being, the Rams need more consistent production from Young over 18 games even if that means Stewart cutting into some of his snaps.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2025/5/9/24426847/rams-draft-profile-josaiah-stewart