The Los Angeles Rams closed out the 2026 NFL Draft with a pick that adds serious weight to their defensive line—nose tackle Tim Keenan III, a former Alabama teammate of quarterback Ty Simpson. At 6-foot-1 and 327 pounds, Keenan immediately becomes one of the biggest players on the roster, reinforcing the interior behind veteran Poona Ford and company.

Keenan was a force for the Crimson Tide in 2024, showing dominant form as a run stopper, but his production dipped last season, causing his draft stock to slide. Still, the Rams see clear potential in him as a rotational player who can anchor against the run—a role that fits their defensive scheme perfectly.

Leading up to the draft, two top analysts weighed in on Keenan's game. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com projected him as a sixth- or seventh-round pick, while Dane Brugler of The Athletic gave a similar grade. Here's what they had to say about the big man's strengths and areas for growth.

Zierlein called Keenan "a girthy nose tackle with average talent and upside," praising his frame and play strength to take on blocks and hold his ground. However, he noted that a lack of length limits his ability to punch and shed quickly, making him more of a "block-beater than block-eater" with little pass-rush upside. Still, he sees Day 3 value as a rotational piece.

Brugler had a more colorful take, comparing Keenan to a "tea pot—short and stout." He highlighted the rookie's strong, technically sound hands to stack the point of attack and create leverage, but pointed out that he's often late to shed blocks due to his shorter arms. While limited as a pass rusher, Brugler described Keenan as "a bowling ball once he gets rolling downhill," and compared him to veteran nose tackle Khyiris Tonga. "He's a better football player than a toolsy athlete," Brugler added, "and could be this year's version of Tonga."

Keenan won't be asked to start right away, but with defensive coordinator Chris Shula's heavy rotation along the line, he should see meaningful snaps as a rookie. He's an ideal backup to Ford in the middle, bringing the kind of grit and power that can make a difference in short-yardage and goal-line situations. For Rams fans, this pick is about adding depth and toughness where it matters most.