
The Los Angeles Rams are one of the teams that can continue to stay relevant, despite having some of the oldest stars in the league. There's a path for them to seamlessly connect the past and future of their franchise, but they have to do so with smart decision-making and drafting well.
The Rams have two first-round picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, which they will need to ace if they want to keep up with the Seattle Seahawks and their pursuit of being back-to-back Super Bowl champions. What prospects should they be on the lookout for?
Josh Edwards writes for CBS Sports, and he wrote an article breaking down his 2026 NFL mock draft. He predicts the Rams will prioritize offense in the first round and use their draft picks to address their offensive line and wide receiver room. Francis Mauigoa is the offensive lineman they're predicted to select, and KC Concepcion is predicted to be their wide receiver of the future.
"Rob Havenstein announced his retirement. Perhaps the team is comfortable with Warren McClendon Jr. in a scheme that makes the assignment a bit easier on its linemen, but with two first-round picks, there is an opportunity to address the concern in a big way. Francis Mauigoa should get a chance to stick at right tackle", said Edwards.
I believe the Rams should have faith in Warren McClendon Jr. after the season he had for them, but I also believe it would be irresponsible to pass up on an offensive tackle prospect as polished as Mauigoa. He'd be an instant starter and would solidify the right side of the offensive line for whichever quarterback is next after Matthew Stafford.
"Los Angeles found something that worked last season with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, but Adams is both 33 years old and entering the final year of his contract. The Rams are always forward-thinking, so KC Concepcion's presence may not truly be felt until 2027, but by then he will have a year of experience in the system".
Speaking about supporting the next quarterback, Concepcion is a great snag at the end of the first round. Davante Adams has been an excellent signing for them, but they lack a secondary star to accompany Puka Nacua for the long term.
Concepcion can be that with his special skillset and some of the most secure hands in his draft class, Sean McVay will find ways to get the most out of him.
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