Recent reporting from Diana Russini claims the Los Angeles Rams are working the phones in order to trade up into the top 10 of the impending 2024 NFL draft. This move is such anathema to how the Rams have done draft business in the Les Snead/Sean McVay era that almost all analysts and draftniks haven’t even considered this a possibility until this very moment.
The Rams are known for NOT picking in the first round and also for trading back, understanding that the draft is a practice in probability. The only way to ensure finding quality players is to increase the pool of players you draft, not relying entirely on the scouting process.
Let’s take a look at who the Rams could target with a Top-10 draft spot. How novel a concept.
Top 5 players the Los Angeles Rams Could Target in the Top 10
Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
Bowers is an explosive pass catcher who creates mismatches all over the field with speed, ball skills, and competitive edge. One can imagine Sean McVay’s head swirling with the plays Bowers would unlock for the offense.
Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Rome Odunze would add a dimension to the Rams offense they have gone without over the last several years. He’s expected to be a starting outside receiver (X receiver). He is a tall, strong, and fast athlete who has a knack for catching passes and a competitive focus.
Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
The Rams have spent 2024 upgrading their offensive line. Adding Alt would be the final cherry on top of that effort. Alt is seen as the one truly plug-and-play offensive lineman in this draft. Alt is quick and nimble for his size. He has good balance and can adjust quickly. This will help him become a strong blocker on running plays and protect the quarterback well even early on in his NFL career.
JJ McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Like it or not, the Rams will be keeping an eye on quarterbacks. Despite having several quarterbacks under contract, McVay said “I think you leave all options on the table,” when it comes to possibly drafting a quarterback.
Taking a shot at the most important position in football is worth trading up for. No one faults the Kansas City Chiefs for trading up for Patrick Mahomes while having Alex Smith on the roster.
Whether JJ McCarthy will be the next great Rams QB, notwithstanding, if Sean McVay likes him, Sean McVay will take him. This would also signal a longer-term plan for McVay.
Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
While Peter Schager guaranteed the Rams draft an offensive player in the first round, taking the top defensive player in the draft would help the Rams replace the ‘load-bearing wall’ they lost when Aaron Donald retired. While the defensive line is the immediate need, there isn’t a player in this draft that they could build the team around.
Arnold offers an ideal blend of cover athleticism and competitive makeup, with the ball skills to make plays at every level of the field. He is scheme-versatile and has the talent to work inside or outside. He can be an NFL team’s No. 1 cornerback, offering a skill set similar to that of the Chicago Bears’ Jaylon Johnson. – Dane Brugler