Jul 29, 2024; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay, general manager Les Snead and chief of staff Carter Crutchfield talk on the field during training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Rams' Primary Draft Focus is Becoming Clear

Originally posted on Los Angeles Rams on SI
By Brock Vierra | Last updated Mar 3, 2026 12:03 PM ET

WOODLAND HILLS, Ca. The month of March is a beautiful time of breaking news and speculation. While the Rams are keeping their cards close to their chest and they always have the ability to pivot, one meeting could change the course of the 2026 NFL season.

The Belief Coming Out Of The Combine

CBS Sports Zachary Pereles wrote that one thing he learned from the combine is that defensive help should be on the way for the Rams.

"The Rams hold multiple first-round picks thanks to their trade with the Falcons last year, and with several defensive backs set to hit free agency, Los Angeles could look at that area in the draft," stated Pereles. "The Rams, who did not send coach Sean McVay or GM Les Snead to Indianapolis, per usual, met with LSU's Mansoor Delane, for example. He could be an option at No. 13."

Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Something important to note is that there aren't any confirmed reports that Tennessee's Jermod McCoy met with the Rams. Considering the priority of the position and the fact that Delane and McCoy are the top two cornerbacks on the board, one has to wonder if this is the indication needed to say the Rams want Delane. It's at very least a tip of the hand. Now we have to see if the meeting was purposeful or just a diversion.

Is Delane The Answer?

NFL.com's Lance Zierlein provided his report on Delane, stating the reasons behind Delane's hype.

"Delane is one of the top cornerbacks in a CB-rich draft," stated Zierlein. "He excels in press coverage, altering release timing with punches and slides. Smooth hips and efficient footwork keep him connected in man coverage, while his processing allows for quick transitions in off-man and short zone looks. He has good top-end speed for vertical phasing but is inconsistent turning to find the football."

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"While he locks in on the route at times, he’s rarely oblivious to the quarterback’s actions, allowing him to slam catch windows shut and play the football. He played through a core muscle injury for much of the 2025 season and still performed at an elite level. Delane’s emergence over the past two years might be indicative of what’s to come, as he’s shown lockdown potential."

Considering Emmanuel Forbes has proven his worth as a CB2, Delane could be the player who locks down the position for the next five years. Something to keep tabs on.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Rams on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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