Two years after the 2023 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams’ selections have taken shape. Some players have emerged as key starters. Others have faded into the background.
Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of who deserves a second contract and who doesn’t.
Los Angeles Rams 2023 Draft Class
Steve Avila (G)
Avila has started nearly every game since arriving. After missing part of 2024 with a knee issue, he returned strong. His pass protection is solid, and his run blocking is getting better. At 25, he’s durable and steady.
Verdict: Yes. Starting-caliber guards with upside should stay.
Byron Young (EDGE)
Fifteen and a half sacks over two years says enough. Young plays fast and finishes plays. He’s consistent and improving against the run. The Rams would be smart to extend him before his price climbs.
Verdict: Yes. Productive edge rushers don’t grow on trees. The only hiccup is cap space.
Kobie Turner (DT)
Turner has been a disruptive interior presence. He ranks top 10 in pressures among DTs in both seasons. With Aaron Donald gone, Turner becomes essential.
Verdict: Yes. He’s the future inside. Keep him.
Nick Hampton (EDGE)
He’s barely played on defense and has made little impact. Still hanging on as a special teams piece, but not much else.
Verdict: No. He’s replaceable.
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Warren McClendon Jr. (OT)
Got some snaps in 2024 due to injuries. Played fine but didn’t shine. Solid as depth, but doesn’t project as more than that.
Verdict: No. Keep only if cheap and no better options.
Davis Allen (TE)
Showed flashes as a rookie, then faded. Mainly used as a blocker in 2024. Reliable hands, but doesn’t separate or stretch the field.
Verdict: No. A third-year leap is needed to change that.
Puka Nacua (WR)
A breakout star. Historic rookie year followed by a strong encore despite injuries. Smart, tough, polished. Already plays like a WR1.
Verdict: Yes. Lock him in now.
Ethan Evans (P)
Quietly, one of the league’s best young punters. Big leg, good control, improving year over year.
Verdict: Yes. Keep the special teams stable.
Desjuan Johnson (DL)
Limited production. Three sacks over two years and missed half of 2024. High motor, but hasn’t broken through.
Verdict: No. Fringe roster guy.
Also Read: Los Angeles Rams Look To Complete Bird Gauntlet This Season
Rams 2023 Draft Class Wrap-Up
Of the nine draft picks still on the team, four are clear building blocks: Avila, Young, Turner, and Nacua. Evans is a reliable specialist worth re-signing.
The rest, Hampton, McClendon, Allen, and Johnson, are either unproven or stuck as depth. The Rams should invest in the core and reload the rest through future drafts.