Rams Draft: Powerful Picks, Strategic Trades

0:00On April 21st, the Los Angeles Rams roll into the 2026 NFL draft with a 13th overall pick, no glaring holes on the roster, and eyes locked on another Super Bowl run. They're set up to tweak things just right without overhauling everything, heading into auctions and workouts with a stacked squad. The Athletics' Nate Atkins dropped a sharp 7-round mock, spotlighting smart trades to lock-and-key upgrades. They snag Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling at 13. A massive 6-foot-7, 315-pounder with versatility at left and right tackle. He steps right in at right tackle post Havenstein retirement, bringing that raw power next to Kevin Dotson. Then they get crafty, trading up in Round 2 with the Bengals for Washington's wide receiver, Denzel Boston, shipping off their 61st pick and a 2027 fourth-rounder. To balance the draft capital, they slide back a bit in Round 3, grabbing Pittsburgh linebacker, Kyle Louis from the Eagles while picking up extra.

1:03Picks, Louis, with his safety background, adds coverage pop and linebacker. They flip more assets to the Jaguars for LSU quarterback Garrett Newsmeyer, nailing that underrated backup QB spot amid Jimmy Garabolo uncertainty. Later rounds focus on depth and special teams. Buffalo linebacker Red Murdoch brings tackle records in Force Fumbles in Round 7. Arkansas Guard Fernando Carmona, with 49 starts and all SEC honors, bolsters the interior line. Houston cornerback Latro McCutchen rounds it out, prime for special teams after college blocks. These moves keep trades light, hit needs like protection, receiving threats, linebacker speed, QB depth and bench strength. Blending win now grit with. Future planning, just how the Rams like to build.