The Los Angeles Rams’ 2026 draft strategy will be one to follow all offseason. How general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay operate in the coming weeks will help determine what they do in April’s draft, especially if they keep both of the team’s first-round picks.
While there are several different directions the Rams could go, NFL.com senior draft strategy editor Dan Parr mocked two offensive players to L.A. with their two picks: USC receiver Makai Lemon at No. 13 and then Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu at No. 29.
The Rams go shopping in their own backyard and give themselves an embarrassment of riches at receiver. Good luck to the defenses charged with stopping Puka Nacua, Davante Adams and Lemon, who earned an Amon-Ra St. Brown comp from NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein.
Following longtime starting right tackle Rob Havenstein’s retirement, the Rams pluck Lomu, who started on the left side for the past two seasons at Utah. He would benefit from some time to develop before he’s expected to compete for starting snaps.
Additionally, Parr predicted the Jets would trade up to No. 28 to take Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson ahead of the Rams.
This draft isn’t just an investment in the future, but it’s pushing a lot of the Rams’ chips into the table for a big 2026 season. Matthew Stafford is back, which means the Rams’ Super Bowl window is wide open once again.
Lemon is a luxury pick at No. 13 but would fit a clear need for a third receiver on the roster. Lemon caught 79 passes for 1,156 yards this past season with 11 touchdowns. He would slot in right behind Nacua and Adams with the ability to takeover the WR2 role if and when Adams leaves.
Lomu, meanwhile, serves as insurance for the Rams’ offensive line. Warren McClendon Jr. is expected to take the right tackle starting job vacated by the retired Rob Havenstein, but he’s never played a full season as a starter for the Rams. While McClendon Jr. was good in his time as the starter, Lomu is someone who could step in if needed over the next few years.
