The Los Angeles Rams are shaping up to be a force in the coming years, and a recent seven-round mock draft from The Athletic's Dane Brugler illustrates just how bright that future could be. With seven picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, ranging from the 13th overall selection to three in the seventh round, the Rams are in a fascinating position. Thanks to savvy roster management, they don't have glaring immediate needs, freeing them up to draft for both immediate impact and long-term development.
Brugler's mock masterfully walks that line, addressing small roster holes while securing crucial depth. Let's break down how each pick could fortify the Rams' championship aspirations.
At pick No. 13, Brugler has the Rams selecting a big-bodied playmaker at wide receiver. While the prospect comes with some injury history, his talent is undeniable. This move is a classic case of planning for the future. With Puka Nacua established as the WR1, this player could develop within the system before eventually stepping into a starring role as the primary WR2, ensuring the Rams' explosive offense remains potent for years to come.
In the second round, the focus shifts to defense. With the 61st pick, Brugler projects the Rams to snag a highly productive college linebacker. This player boasts an ideal NFL frame and a stat sheet overflowing with tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss. A comparison to a legend like Bobby Wagner speaks volumes about his potential to anchor the middle of the Rams' defense for the next era.
Addressing secondary depth in the third round, Brugler selects a cornerback from a premier college program. Despite an offseason overhaul that brought in starters like Trent McDuffie, reliable depth is key in today's pass-happy NFL. This pick brings a proven track record of ball production and tackling, providing crucial insurance and competition in a vital position group.
The later rounds are where championship rosters are truly built, and Brugler's final pick is a testament to that. He has the Rams taking a developmental offensive tackle—a player once considered among the best in his class. This is a strategic, forward-thinking selection aimed at cultivating a future protector for the quarterback, ensuring the offensive line remains a strength well into the future.
Overall, this mock draft class is a blueprint for sustained success. It balances ready-to-contribute talent with high-upside projects, showing how the Rams can stay competitive now while building a foundation to dominate for years to come. For fans, it's an exciting glimpse into a future where the Rams remain perennial contenders.