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znModeratorI just read something that provides the magic words needed to assess Ferguson.
Someone called him a “move TE.”
That’s less of a pure inline blocker who lines up and is, basically, when run blocking, another O-lineman.
A move TE, you put in motion and move all over the formation whether it’s run or pass. They often run block on the move (wham blocks etc) and then of course also use motion to set up pass routes. So it helps not to think of Ferguson as a a traditional TE, who tend to be inline blockers in the run game, but to instead think of him as a move TE, who tend to play like big, athletic wide receivers that line up anywhere–inline sometimes but also out wide, in the slot, or behind the LOS.
April 28, 2025 at 1:09 pm in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156235znModeratorWhy the Super Bowl-ready Rams may have won the 2025 NFL draft
Gary Klein
The Rams made no splashy selections.
None of the six players general manager Les Snead and coach Sean McVay chose will be penciled in as opening-game starters.
They spent three days filling out a roster that was already Super Bowl ready.
But the Rams, arguably, won the 2025 NFL draft.
And set themselves up to possibly win next year’s draft as well.
Snead protege James Gladstone, the first-year general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, made headlines on the first night of the draft by trading up to take cornerback/receiver Travis Hunter with the second overall pick.
But when Snead later traded to the Atlanta Falcons what for the Rams was a fairly meaningless No. 26 pick, the Rams stunningly received in return a No. 1 pick in 2026.
That means the Rams, who one day in the not-so-distant future must replace veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, will have two first-round picks next year in a draft that could include Texas quarterback Arch Manning and others.
That means Snead — who famously uttered “F them picks” after building a Super Bowl championship team in 2021 — will have plenty of draft capital to wheel and deal with for a prospect or an established player.
And few general managers deal like Snead.
Next April marks the 10th anniversary of Snead trading up a record 14 picks to select quarterback Jared Goff with the No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft.
That deal required the Rams to give up their first-round pick, two second-round picks and a third-round pick that year and a 2017 first-round and third-round pick.
Two years later the Rams were in the Super Bowl.
In 2019, Snead packaged two first-round picks in a deal for cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Two years later the Rams won the Super Bowl.
They did that, of course, after Snead sent Goff — and two first-round draft picks — to the Detroit Lions in a 2021 trade for Stafford.
This season the Rams are expected to make another deep run in the playoffs. And if Thursday night’s trade helps the Falcons make the playoffs, the Rams’ first-round picks next year could be in the bottom third of the draft.
Regardless, it is valuable draft capital.
And if the Falcons or Rams falter, the Rams could end up with a pick in the top third.
Not that McVay acknowledged his anticipation.
“One year’s like dog years to me in coaching,” he said, chuckling, “That’s a long way away.”
After making that trade on the first night of the draft, the Rams spent Friday and Saturday augmenting a talented roster with their fewest selections since the Goff trade left them with only six in 2016.
They took Oregon tight end Terrance Ferguson in the second round, Michigan outside linebacker Josaiah Stewart in the third, Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter in the fourth, Ohio State defensive tackle Ty Hamilton and Mississippi linebacker Chris Paul Jr. in the fifth and Pittsburgh receiver Konata Mumpfield in the seventh.
The Rams traded up three times.
“We said, ‘instead of waiting,’ and I call it, let the draft happen to you, ‘let’s go attack the draft,’” Snead said. “And when you do that you have to give up some picks. But we thought that was the more appropriate thing to do.”
No, the Rams did not draft a cornerback.
But that only makes it more apparent that a potential reunion with Ramsey might be imminent.
Coming on the heels of the Rams’ success in the previous two drafts, this class projects to include multiple contributors for a team that advanced to the NFC divisional round last season before losing to the eventual Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles.
With Stafford entering his 17th NFL season, and rising stars such as receiver Puka Nacua, Kobie Turner, Jared Verse and other young players soon becoming eligible for extensions, the Rams are going all in next season.
And they will do the same in 2026, when the NFL season will end with Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium.
April 28, 2025 at 12:35 pm in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156234znModeratorfrom Albert Breer, NFL Draft Takeaways: https://www.si.com/nfl/nfl-draft-takeaways-honest-discussion-about-shedeur-sanders#_9fxxqutf5
Los Angles Rams
The Rams’ bet in this year’s draft is on their own evaluations. As we mentioned above, Los Angeles did sniff around on trading into the top 10 with a focus on getting another offensive weapon—if they got to No. 8, McMillan, and the top two tight ends, Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland, would’ve been there. And just because they didn’t pull off that move up doesn’t mean they weren’t able to accomplish what they were aiming to do.
They just went about it in a wildly different way.
Instead of going up for McMillan, Ohio State receiver Emeka Egbuka and North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton (all of whom may have, in certain scenarios, slipped to them), the Rams dealt down. The haul they got from the Atlanta Falcons, who were coming up for James Pearce Jr., speaks for itself. To move down 20 spots, and turn a third-rounder into a seventh, they picked up a 2026 first-round pick.
The interesting thing, though, is that only five skill guys (wide receivers Jayden Higgins and Luther Burden III, RBs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, TE Mason Taylor) went between 26 and 46. And I’m not sure the Rams would have valued any of them, save for probably Henderson, over Oregon tight end Terrance Ferguson, whom they plucked with the second-rounder they landed from Atlanta.
Here’s the other thing—the Rams have been looking for this kind of player for a few years now. Two years ago, without a first-round pick, they looked at trading back into the bottom of the first round for Utah TE Dalton Kincaid, who’s becoming a difference-maker now for the Buffalo Bills. Then, last year, they aggressively pursued a trade up in the first round for Brock Bowers, who became a star almost right away with the Raiders.
Ferguson is the same sort of ultra-athletic move tight end, if not quite the level of prospect that Bowers and Kincaid were coming out. So the blueprint’s been drawn up for Ferguson for a couple of years now, and the Rams finally get to unfurl those plans.
It should be fun to see what comes next.
znModeratorSeahawks podcaster’s realtime reaction to Falcons/Rams trade.
Priceless…
I enjoyed that. Thanks.
znModeratorLacks ideal agility and athleticism from second level.
his agility numbers from his pro day were very good. 4.22 short shuttle and 6.93 three cone.
could be another udfa gem.
Zierlein seems especially negative this year, I don’t know why. Whatever it is the Rams see in a player that makes them seem better than average in certain ways, he tends not to see it. He was not very high on Ferguson either but then everyone else was.
April 28, 2025 at 11:36 am in reply to: before the summer assessments: roster, draft, FAs, etc #156230znModeratorRams post-draft depth chart: Continuity at OL, new-look WRs room stand out
Jourdan Rodrigue
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6316644/2025/04/28/rams-2025-post-draft-depth-chart/
LOS ANGELES — After just six picks in this year’s NFL Draft, an already-full roster didn’t have many spots open for the new crop of rookies. I have predicted that all of the rookie draft picks will make the team, however. The Rams are also still thin in a few areas, including cornerback.
Here’s my best guess at their 53-man depth chart heading into the offseason (players are listed in order of depth):
Quarterback (2)
Matthew Stafford
Jimmy GaroppoloThe Rams will probably go into training camp with extra arms in Stetson Bennett and maybe another pickup (they haven’t officially released their list of undrafted free agents, which means some contracts are still being worked out) but it’s hard to see them rostering three players here once the season begins.
Running back (4)
Kyren Williams
Blake Corum
Jarquez Hunter
Ronnie RiversI can easily see the Rams keeping just three running backs, but Rivers’ contributions on special teams will be a factor in their decision.
Tight end (4)
Tyler Higbee
Hunter Ferguson
Colby Parkinson
Davis AllenCoach Sean McVay wanted Ferguson badly and seems to already have a vision for the rookie tight end, who the Rams picked No. 46 overall. That could move Parkinson to more of a blocking role.
Receiver (6)
Puka Nacua
Davante Adams
Tutu Atwell
Jordan Whittington
Konata Mumpfield
Xavier SmithWith Ferguson expected to take on a role in the passing game, it’s possible the Rams can go lighter in numbers at receiver. Mumpfield is a sneakily intriguing and high-upside fit within McVay’s scheme, and both Whittington and Smith carved out nice roles in the offense and especially on special teams in 2024.
Offensive line (10)
Alaric Jackson
Steve Avila
Coleman Shelton
Kevin Dotson
Rob Havenstein
Warren McClendon
Beaux Limmer
KT Leveston
Justin Dedich
Dylan McMahonI don’t believe the depth of the group will quite shake out like this once the season begins — the Rams could make additional moves in later waves of free agency after none of the linemen they liked fell to them in the draft — but I have flagged McVay’s pre-draft comment that he thinks the team needs a 10-deep at this position. The Rams also need to be certain that Havenstein is back to full health after his shoulder cleanouts this spring.
Defensive line (6)
Poona Ford
Kobie Turner
Braden Fiske
Ty Hamilton
Tyler Davis
Larrell MurchisonHamilton and Davis can back up either Ford or Turner, because of both players’ versatility (though Davis may be better suited to back up Ford at nose tackle).
Outside linebacker (5)
Jared Verse
Byron Young
Josaiah Stewart
Nick Hampton
Brennan JacksonAs we saw last season with the veteran Michael Hoecht, the Rams want a third pass rusher in consistent rotation for their extra-rusher packages. Stewart seems tailor-made for this role, and Hampton’s speed makes him an intriguing fit too. Jackson is more of a power rusher but coaches will be interested in seeing how he does with an actual training camp to develop (he missed most of last offseason to injury).
Inside linebacker (4)
Omar Speights
Nate Landman
Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr.
Troy ReederSomething tells me that Paul won’t spend a ton of time waiting in the wings of this position group, but he’ll need a little time to learn the defense well enough to call it as the “green dot.”
Cornerback (4)
Darious Williams
Ahkello Witherspoon
Cobie Durant
Emmanuel ForbesI could see this group growing if the Rams are able to come to terms with a more manageable contract for Jalen Ramsey, who is available for trade but owed $21 million this year. Also, Ramsey could play in the slot which would help the Rams drop Quentin Lake back to deeper safety to be a field marshal.
April 28, 2025 at 11:32 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156228znModeratorfrom https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6313395/2025/04/26/nfl-draft-2025-overall-winners-losers/
The Rams’ draft wizardry
After not making a first-round pick in seven years, the Los Angeles Rams nailed their selection last April, grabbing edge rusher Jared Verse.
They were back in character this year, moving out of the first round in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons. The payoff could be substantial: To move back 20 spots, the Rams acquired Atlanta’s first-round pick for 2026, which could be a top-10 selection. Impressive work from general manager Les Snead and coach Sean McVay.
Los Angeles, which wanted to move up to draft Brock Bowers last year, found an option at tight end in this draft in Terrance Ferguson, a four-year starter out of Oregon who could become a perfect complement in the middle of the field to the 1-2 punch on the outside in Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. A former basketball player, Ferguson figures to be a reliable, rangy target for Matthew Stafford, and maybe another chess piece McVay can exploit.
With Stafford now 37, the Rams would be wise to add a younger passer who can carry the torch whenever he decides to retire. Having an additional first-round pick in what’s expected to be a far deeper quarterback draft next spring will give them ample opportunity.
znModeratorShaun Dolac
from https://www.nfl.com/prospects/shaun-dolac/3200444f-4c03-9551-2ab3-5f9bcd179974
By Lance Zierlein
Overview
Three-year starter who went from walk-on to All-American over a five-year span. Dolac’s activity level and production are impressive. He does a nice job of recovering from misdirection and finding his way to the football. He’s scrappy and smart but lacks the size and explosiveness most teams look for from NFL linebackers. Dolac might not have the measurables but his instincts and ability to play as a core special-teamer could give him a chance regardless of his draft status.
Strengths
Tremendously productive as a starter.
Perceptive to play design and sees the field with a wide lens.
Able to combat climbing blocks with leverage and positioning.
Good instincts and ball skills working from spot drops.
Has an opportunity to shine as a core special-teams player.Weaknesses
Below-average size, speed and length.
Lacks ideal agility and athleticism from second level.
Gets caught behind blocks with premature shots downhill.
Can be swallowed by linemen who get their hands on him.
Too heavy on his feet to match NFL route breaks in coverage.znModeratorWR Tru Edwards – Rather than transfer from Louisiana Tech to Kentucky, this diamond-in-the-rough wide receiver has signed to play for the Rams instead, per NFL Insider Adam Schefter. While a bit unorthodox, there is a lot to love about this signing. If his college stats profile is true, he stands 6-foot-3, weighs 200 pounds, and clocked an unofficial 40-time of 4.40 seconds.
from https://sports.yahoo.com/article/former-louisiana-tech-wr-tru-003459125.html
During his tenure at Louisiana Tech, Edwards showcased his talent by recording 84 receptions for 986 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2024 season, earning First-Team All-Conference USA honors. Over his collegiate career, he amassed 112 catches for 1,307 yards and eight touchdowns.
from https://sports.yahoo.com/article/rams-signing-son-former-1st-011504785.html
The Rams have already signed a bunch of undrafted rookies, one of them being Louisiana Tech wide receiver Tru Edwards. He’s the son of former first-round pick Troy Edwards, who was also a wide receiver.
Me: …his father, Troy Edwards, played for the Rams in 2002 but didn’t see much action. He was a 1st round pick by Pittsburgh in 1999.
Tru is 24. He bounced around a lot through minor college programs before having his big year at Louisiana Tech in 2024.
Then there’s this vid, where at the 7:46 mark, Tru Edwards catches a short pass in traffic one-handed behind his back (yes one-handed behind his back), and runs it 88 or so yards downfield for a TD.
znModeratorI feel like there hasn’t been enough attention given to Shadeur Sanders.
oh, alright…
znModeratorI miss the blue board.
Not me! I think the Vikings flamers are still there.
znModeratorfrom https://www.nfldraftbuzz.com/Player/Josaiah-Stewart-LB-CoastalCarolina
Draft Profile: Bio
From Bronx street ball to the bright lights of the Big House, Josaiah Stewart’s path to the NFL draft embodies the grit that defines his game. The 6’1″, 245-pound edge defender burst onto the college scene as a freshman at Coastal Carolina, shattering the program’s single-season sack record with 12.5 quarterback takedowns. After earning Freshman All-American honors and dominating the Sun Belt for two seasons, Stewart took his talents to Ann Arbor, where he evolved from situational pass rusher to team captain for the national champion Wolverines.
Stewart’s two-year stint at Michigan proved he could hang with elite competition, racking up 14 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss while earning All-Big Ten honors both seasons. His signature performance came in the 2024 Rose Bowl semifinal against Alabama, where he terrorized the Crimson Tide’s offensive line for seven tackles and repeatedly forced their quarterback off his spot in crucial moments.
The former three-star recruit who played just one and a half seasons of high school ball due to COVID-19 has developed into one of the most polished pass rushers in this draft class. His production speaks volumes
– 30 career sacks, 46 tackles for loss, and consistent disruption against top-tier competition. Most impressively, Stewart’s game took a significant leap forward in 2024, leading Michigan’s defensive front with 13 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks while earning second-team All-Big Ten honors.Scouting Report: Strengths
Explosive first step causes instant problems for tackles, consistently winning the edge
Masterful hand technician who sets up rushes with euro-steps and stems, keeping blockers guessing with a deep arsenal of rips, swims, and cross-chops
Natural leverage player who plays with outstanding pad level, allowing him to get under bigger tackles’ pads despite lacking prototypical size
Elite motor shows up constantly on film – routinely makes hustle plays 15-20 yards downfield and racks up coverage sacks through pure determination
Sophisticated pass rush plan demonstrates high football IQ, consistently setting up counter moves and adapting mid-game when initial approach gets stymied
Surprisingly stout at the point of attack against tight ends, using natural leverage and compact frame to hold his ground better than size suggests
Quick processor who sniffs out screens and draws, showing ability to quickly transition from rush to pursuit when plays develop away
Scheme versatile player who’s shown ability to play both standing up and hand in dirt, while also displaying comfort dropping into shallow zonesScouting Report: Weaknesses
Undersized frame at 245 pounds (6th percentile) creates issues against power-oriented offensive tackles who can absorb his initial burst and reset anchors
Below-average arm length (32 3/4″) limits ability to consistently separate from blocks once offensive linemen latch on with proper technique
Struggles to maintain gap integrity against double teams and down blocks, occasionally getting washed out of his run fit on power schemes
Limited ankle flexion affects ability to bend the corner at sharp angles, forcing him to take wider angles that give quarterbacks time to step up
Can get overeager as a rusher, occasionally running himself out of plays by getting too far upfield against mobile quarterbacksScouting Report: Summary
I’m convinced he’s going to make defensive coordinators look smart on passing downs from day one. His USC game was a masterclass in pass rush setup – watching him euro-step outside then explode inside against their right tackle three times showed the kind of sophisticated rush planning that translates immediately. The real eye-opener came against Alabama, where he consistently pressed the pocket against their NFL-caliber tackles despite giving up 50+ pounds.
The tape against Ohio State and Washington revealed his limitations – when teams committed to running at him with double teams and power schemes, he struggled to maintain his ground. But his response to these challenges spoke volumes about his football character. Even after getting washed out early, he kept fighting and adjusted his attack angles, eventually forcing crucial pressures in both fourth quarters. This mental toughness and adaptability remind me of what made Haason Reddick successful despite similar size concerns.
Give me Stewart lined up in a Wide-9 technique where he can unleash that explosive first step, or let him work as a stand-up rusher who can threaten both inside and outside track rushes. He’s shown enough on tape against elite competition to warrant a second-round selection. While his frame may limit his ceiling as an every-down player, his refined pass rush arsenal and competitive toughness will make him a valuable pressure player from day one. The improvement in his hand usage from his Coastal Carolina tape to his Michigan film suggests he’s still ascending as a technician.
znModeratorDoug Farrar @NFL_DougFarrar
Michigan EDGE Josaiah Stewart is a smaller rusher at 6-foot-1 and 245 pounds, but the speed-to-power reps are ridiculous. He’ll just throw tackles around at times, and he can blow right by protections to his side. Needs more of a plan, but the basics are there to annoy NFL QBs.znModeratorDefense (6)
Defensive tackle (2)
DT DaJon Terry – The Rams added a powerful defensive tackle, per Tom Pelissero, in Oklahoma DT DaJon Terry. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 321 pounds, Terry is not going to flash for everyone, but he is a solid blocker-gobbler who NFL teams need to do the dirty work in the trenches to free up playmakers. He gives 100 percent on every play.
DT Bill Norton – Per the Texas Longhorns, the Rams are signing a huge bargain in 6-foot-6, 335-pound defensive lineman Bill Norton. Norton. Norton is impressive in presence, but underwhelming on the football field. He needs to convert size and power into production, but my-oh-my, what a huge and powerful defensive lineman.
Inside linebacker (1)
LB Shaun Dolac – 6-foot-1, 225-pound inside linebacker from the University of Buffalo. Shaun Dolac. He wowed scouts at his pro day. From Buffalo Bills Beat writer Ryan Talbot: Per source, UB LB Shaun Dolac is joining the #Rams as an UDFA. He has that unique S/LB potential
Outside linebacker (2)
OLB Jamil Muhammad – A former quarterback turned pass rusher, this USC prospect certainly brings plenty of intrigue to the Rams roster, per Aaron Wilson. His unique career track even caught the eye of the Kansas City Chiefs. Standing an estimated 6-foot-2 and weighing 230 pounds, his best season was 2023 when he racked up 46 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, and 6.5 quarterback sacks. He is worth keeping on the radar.
OLB Josh Pearcy – A six-year edge rusher for Rice, the 6-foot-2, 242-pound performer is signing with the Rams, per Rice. A quietly productive iron man in the NCAA, Pearcy brings passion and versatility to the NFL and could find his niche in any number of roles.
Safety (1)
S Nate Valcarcel – After the stunning performance of undrafted S Jaylen McCollough, the addition of Northern Illinois’ 6-foot-1, 192-pound safety Nate Valcarcel cannot be brushed off as another camp body. Per Ryan Fowler, Valcarcel is joining the Rams’ secondary to compete for playing time. His stats prove that he is developing each year. Now, he brings that football passion to the NFL
Offense (7)
Running back (1)
RB Jordan Waters – While Jordan Waters was undrafted, he is worth talking about from his size and stature alone. Per Aaron Wilson, the Rams are signing the former 6-foot-0, 224-pound NC State running back. While he unofficially clocked a 4.58-second 40-time, his size more than compensates for that. He is a versatile weapon in the offensive backfield that can put yards and points on the board on the ground or through the air.
Wide Receiver (3)
WR Mario Williams – The wide receiver room gets more competitive with the addition of Tulane’s 5-foot-9, 178-pound rookie wide receiver prospect, per Tulane Football. He will need to prove that he can compete as an every-down offensive weapon, but he has plenty of special-teams and trick-play potential.
WR Tru Edwards – Rather than transfer from Louisiana Tech to Kentucky, this diamond-in-the-rough wide receiver has signed to play for the Rams instead, per NFL Insider Adam Schefter. While a bit unorthodox, there is a lot to love about this signing. If his college stats profile is true, he stands 6-foot-3, weighs 200 pounds, and clocked an unofficial 40-time of 4.40 seconds.
WR Brennan Pressley – Per Matt Zenitz, the Rams are adding one of Oklahoma State’s most prolific pass catchers. He is limited by size alone, as he stands 5-foot-9, weighs 175 pounds, and runs a 4.46-second 40-yard dash. He is a versatile offensive weapon and a special-teams standout.
Interior offensive lineman (2)
IOL Willie Lampkin – Per Justin Melo of The Draft Network. The Rams’ front office does not hold a size standard that other NFL teams have. NT Poona Ford (at 5-foot-11)? Meet 5-foot-10, 270-pound interior offensive lineman Willie Lampkin. If Lampkin were four inches taller, he might have been drafted on Day 2. Is he the Rams’ future fullback? Oh wow, if he is, this is the steal of the draft.
IOL Ben Dooley – Per Boise State, 6-foot-5, 320-pound left guard Ben Dooley will sign with the Rams. He was a long-time blocker for standout RB Ashton Jeanty, so he comes with a presumed excellent mark in run blocking.
Offensive tackle (1)
OT Trey Wedig – If you didn’t realize, Rams starting left tackle Alaric Jackson was an undrafted free agent signing who was projected as early as Round 3 but fell out of the draft. That is why the similar tale of Indiana’s 6-foot-6, 310-pound offensive tackle is worth the read. Signing with the Rams, per Jeremy Fowler, Wedig instantly throws his hat into the ring for competing as RT Rob Havenstein’s successor.
znModeratorThey do Stewart at 39:24 in. It’s a rave.
znModeratorIn some ways Stewart is similar to Verse. But there’s a difference. While he doesn’t have Verse’s speed, size, and power, he does have something that people have pointed out Verse doesn’t. Verse isn’t “bendy.” I know people know what that is but just to get down in black and white: being “bendy” is a trait in most top outside pass rushers where they can get around blockers at full speed by adjusting their hips to glide past the tackle–it depends on getting low and changing direction very quickly without losing speed. Robert Quinn had that in spades–he could bend under the blocker’s arms and turn the corner with full balance at full speed.
Verse is not a “bendy” pass rusher. He is all about speed, power, and aggressive tenacity. He has many ways of using his power but he is essentially a power rusher.
Stewart does have some speed and power, though not at Verse’s level. He does have the same kind of ferocious tenacity, though on a smaller frame.
But all reports on Stewart say he is a “bendy” rusher. If that holds up it makes him a complement to Verse. The Rams will have Verse, Turner, Fiske, Young, and Stewart (and I think Paul can pass rush too, though more as an opportunistic and decisive blitzer type).
From posts in this thread, all quotations from analysts:
The Coastal Carolina transfer flashed his relentless motor and elite bend around the edge
He’s a decisive, linear rusher with the get-off and bend to win at the top of the rush
Able to bend hips and strike with good lift at point of attack.
April 27, 2025 at 4:58 pm in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156208znModeratorColin Cowherd says the Rams fleeced the Falcons by landing a 2026 1st-round pick for James Pearce Jr. 👀
"I feel like LA took Atlanta to the cleaners, in a bad draft for the fifth best edge rusher" Do you agree?#RamsHouse pic.twitter.com/PDBDeiAkzA
— LAFB Network (@LAFBNetwork) April 27, 2025
April 27, 2025 at 3:50 pm in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156207znModeratorLos Angeles Rams: B
Best Pick: I love third-round edge Josaiah Stewart from Michigan. He is as tough as any player in this draft. Getting him in the third will prove to be a steal.Worst Pick: It’s not any one pick, but rather that they didn’t get a speed player outside early for their offense. They lack speed in their passing game, which they didn’t get. They didn’t take a receiver until the seventh round.
The Skinny: They traded out of the first round to land a 2026 first-round pick from the Falcons. That’s a different approach for them, but it made sense. I do like second-round tight end Terrance Ferguson and Stewart. Both will be good players. Fifth-round linebacker Chris Paul is a good player.
April 27, 2025 at 11:15 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156204znModeratorfrom PFF: Josaiah Stewart, Michigan
Arguably the best pass-rushing defensive lineman in this draft class
LB Chris Paul Jr., Mississippi
Paul was the No. 83 prospect on the PFF Big Board, making this a great value pick for the Rams.
A couple of notable comments.
April 27, 2025 at 11:09 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156203znModeratorLos Angeles Rams (B)
Not especially sexy, but second-round TE Terrance Ferguson, third-round OLB Josaiah Stewart and fourth-round RB Jarquez Hunter should all be able to claim instant roles on a team that could be the biggest threat to the Eagles in the NFC next season. But the big win was GM Les Snead obtaining the Falcons’ first-rounder in 2026, which he might need for QB Matthew Stafford’s successor.April 27, 2025 at 11:07 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156202znModeratorfrom NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/news/2025-nfl-draft-final-snap-grades-for-all-32-teams
Grade
B+
Los Angeles RamsGrades
Day 1 grade: A-
Day 2 grade: B+
Day 3 grade: C+Analysis:
Trading out of the first round gave the Rams a 2026 first-round pick, though it did cost them a Day 2 selection this year (in Round 3). Ferguson is the agile pass-catcher they needed at tight end. The Rams eschewed other needs to select Stewart, who is a good football player despite not possessing the size or athleticism of most pass rushers.
Hunter is a solid value in the fourth but might have to wait a while behind Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. Trading a 2026 fourth-round pick to select a good rotational tackle like Hamilton seemed unwise. L.A. needed a linebacker and receiver; Paul and Mumpfield have better tape than measurements or workout numbers.April 27, 2025 at 11:05 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156201znModeratorfrom Yahoo Sports: https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/article/2025-nfl-draft-picks-and-grades-for-all-32-teams-002713009.html#los-angeles-rams
Los Angeles Rams
Grade: AHere’s why: Picking up the Falcons’ 2026 first-round pick for this year’s 26th overall pick makes this an A by itself. Getting Terrance Ferguson in the second round was a nice way to kick off the draft with a quality starter who has the upside to be a weapon at tight end for Matthew Stafford this season. The Rams added some good depth on the edge of their defense with Josaiah Stewart, who should fit in cleanly with their other young edge rushers. Overall, it was a really different approach for the Rams in the draft this year that gives them a lot of firepower in terms of draft capital for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Most interesting pick: Jarquez Hunter, RB, Auburn
The Rams have spent a lot of draft picks on running backs over the past few years, and Hunter joins a somewhat crowded backfield with Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. Obviously, it’s not unusual for RBs on the third day of the draft to make an impact as rookies so it’ll be fascinating to see how head coach Sean McVay sees Hunter, who is a talented runner, fitting into the offense.
April 27, 2025 at 11:04 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156200znModeratorfrom SI: https://www.si.com/nfl/2025-nfl-draft-grades-analysis-for-every-team#_gsmxbb8cy
Los Angeles Rams
Grade: C• Round 2: No. 46: Terrance Ferguson, TE, Oregon
• Round 3: No. 90: Josaiah Stewart, edge, Michigan
• Round 4: No. 117: Jarquez Hunter, RB, Auburn
• Round 5: No. 148: Ty Hamilton, DT, Ohio State
• Round 5: No. 172: Chris Paul Jr., LB, Ole Miss
• Round 7: No. 242: Konata Mumpfield, WR, PittsburghAnalysis: The Rams’ best addition from the draft was gaining the Falcons’ 2026 first-round pick. Los Angeles didn’t do much to address a few holes to close the gap on the top teams in the NFC. Sure, the Rams are still good enough to win the NFC West, but they have concerns at cornerback and linebacker—and they watched the Eagles take Jihaad Campbell at No. 31. GM Les Snead deserves the benefit of the doubt for his draft hits, but he might have made a mistake taking Ferguson over Elijah Arroyo. The Rams also neglected their need for adding a quarterback of the future, but they at least have two first-round picks next year. —GM
April 27, 2025 at 11:02 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156199znModeratorLos Angeles Rams: B+
2 (46): TE Terrance Ferguson, OregonFerguson — With Tyler Higbee entering a contract year and coming off a tough injury, the Rams make a play toward the future with Ferguson. The Oregon tight end has the body type teams like to see out of the position, and although he is limited as a blocker, his overall athleticism gives him potential as a receiver (77.0 PFF receiving grade).
3 (90): ED Josaiah Stewart, Michigan
Stewart — Arguably the best pass-rushing defensive lineman in this draft class, Stewart posted a whopping 27.7% pass-rush win rate and a 92.3 PFF pass-rushing grade in 2024. He plays with violence and active hands and is an explosive athlete in a smaller, lighter frame.
4 (117): RB Jarquez Hunter, Auburn
Hunter — Jarquez Hunter was a four-year player for Auburn who steadily saw his usage increase year after year while never posting a season-long PFF rushing grade below 82.4. Hunter was a chain mover for the Tigers, rushing for 68 first downs in his senior season while forcing 59 missed tackles and was particularly dominant against Kentucky, rushing for 278 yards on 23 carries. He joins a crowded Rams backfield that features Kyren Williams and last year’s third-round selection, Blake Corum.
5 (148): DI Ty Hamilton, Ohio State
Hamilton — The fourth member of Ohio State’s championship defensive line to be selected, Ty Hamilton didn’t grade on the level of his counterparts. However, he is one of the best tacklers at the defensive tackle position, missing only 7% of his tackles this past season.
5 (172): LB Chris Paul Jr., Mississippi
Paul — Paul was the No. 83 prospect on the PFF Big Board, making this a great value pick for the Rams. He put together a well-rounded season for Ole Miss, finishing with an 84.6 PFF run-defense grade and an 84.0 pass-rush grade.
7 (242): WR Konata Mumpfield, Pittsburgh
Mumpfield — Mumpfield has the leaping ability to go up and get the ball. He played 899 career snaps out wide and 744 snaps in the slot, offering his next team valuable versatility. In 2024, he averaged 15.6 yards per reception and posted a 60.0% contested-catch rate.
znModeratorHe was a name mentioned in pre-draft discussions by NFL analysts on twitter as being a good fit for the Rams.
And here it is. From a couple of days before the draft.
Done ✅ https://t.co/AiGpmaRFsl pic.twitter.com/ymJjXLqycS
— RAMS ON FILM (@RamsOnFilm) April 27, 2025
…
Here’s Riddick’s whole tweet from 4/22 and some of the replies:
Louis Riddick@LRiddickESPN
Think about a pairing of WR @konata_b with Puka, Davante, and Stafford in LA if the #Rams were to draft him….Come on man…this is the kind of thing I’m talking about when I say that this WR draft has ballers. Mumpfield can play inside or out, runs GREAT routes, is tough as F, will go over the middle, has great hands, will block…#Ramshouse you should want this.Dustin Ludke@theDunit13
yes yes yes.
I got to talk with Konata on my pod. really passionate about the game and doing it right. He would fit in with the culture there.’Justin Taylor@jtinboi
The Rams scouting is next level. They are gonna find “Bob” and we will all be blown away by how well he fits the team next yearznModeratorStafford9@LAR9MS
Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams have a chance to do something special.Stafford has been the QB for the #1,#2, #1 (rookie) WR seasons in NFL history.
I hope they get close to the #3 spot.
He knows how to get the ball to his open guys.
znModeratorThe @Seahawks targeted elite athletes throughout the draft, selecting a league-high four players with an NGS athleticism score of 85 or higher.
Seattle’s first four picks had an average athleticism score of 91, the highest by any team in the draft since 2003. pic.twitter.com/WV5ANXEbDw
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) April 26, 2025
znModeratorSaw the vid. I don’t really know cause I only saw highlights and read around, but I think the thing with Paul is that he processes so fast. He’s aggressive, quick, determined, and…processes fast.
znModeratorApril 27, 2025 at 12:30 am in reply to: articles, vids, etc. wrapping up & assessing the Rams draft #156189znModeratorThree takeaways from Sean McVay and Les Snead following Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft: Trading up three times on Saturday, Jarquez Hunter’s evaluation, more
Stu Jackson
VAN NUYS, Calif. – The Rams selected four players on Day 3 to round out a six-member 2025 NFL Draft class. In rounds 4-7 on Saturday, Los Angeles traded up three times to go after the players they wanted.
Afterward, head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead held a press conference with local media recapping those moves, their evaluations of running back Jarquez Hunter and inside linebacker Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr., and their overall thoughts on the class.
More on those key takeaways below.
As previously noted, the Rams moved up three times on Saturday to make their selections, coming away with Hunter in Round 4, then Paul and Ohio State defensive lineman Ty Hamilton in Round 5 before staying put to take Pitt wide receiver Konata Mumpfield at pick 242 in Round 7.
The overall six-man class is the smallest in the McVay-Snead era.
“I think it was, like you said, based on our roster, who we were, how the board was going, players that you really were convicted could come in and contribute, whatever that vision for the role was, and it was starting to get thin,” Snead said. “So we said, you know what, instead of wait and just, I call it, letting the draft happen to you, let’s go attack the draft. And when you do that, you have to give up some picks, but we thought that was the more appropriate thing to do.”
As Snead alluded to, the Rams did give up some of those extra selections in the process, including picks 201 and 202 in the sixth round and a 2026 fourth-round pick, but they ultimately felt it was justified.
“We’re all about competition, and we expect these six players to upgrade our roster,” McVay said.ul Jr. with 172nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft
Hunter has “the ability to go through you or to be able to run away from you”
According to Football Insights (@fball_insights on X), Hunter’s career explosive run rate – defined by the account as runs of 10-plus yards – of 18.9% was second-highest among running backs in this year’s class.
It’s a trait the Rams certainly had an appreciation for.
McVay said Hunter has “the ability to go through you or to be able to run away from you,” and break off long runs.
“He can hit home runs for you too,” McVay said. “You give him a vertical seam, he’s got the ability to run away from you. I mean, some of the metrics that we have on him are really impressive.”
Too early to look ahead to 2026
One of the biggest headlines from this year’s draft was the Rams acquiring a 2026 first-round pick from the Falcons, giving Los Angeles two next year.
A reporter said it seemed like this was really about two drafts – this year and next year, rather than just this year alone. The Rams anticipated trading back, but not necessarily for a future first-round pick, according to Snead.
So, while the Rams seem well positioned for next year, it’s too early to think that far ahead.
“One year’s like dog years in coaching for me,” McVay said. “That’s a long way away.”
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