While many, including this writer, thought that the Los Angeles Rams would select a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, they ultimately decided to hold off.
They gained an extra 2026 first-round pick when they traded back into the 2nd round with the Atlanta Falcons, so if there is a signal call that they love next year, they will have the capital to go up and get him.
I’m sure everyone has draft fatigue at this point, but Dane Brugler of The Athletic already dropped a mock draft for next year, and he does indeed have the Rams going QB in round one.
Los Angeles Rams Select Surprising Quarterback In 2026 First Round
It’s obviously extremely early, as all of these QBs still have a whole season to play, so a lot can change. A year ago, Cam Ward would have been a 5th or 6th-round pick. Now, he was just the first overall selection and given the keys to run the Tennessee Titans.
That being said, the consensus of top quarterbacks right now seems to be Texas QB Arch Manning (I don’t think he will come out next year as this is his first year starting), Penn State QB Drew Allar, South Carolina QB LaNorris Sellers, and LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier.
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The Rams are a true title contender, so if they want one of these guys next year, most likely, they are going to have to trade up. Thanks to that extra first-round pick, they have the ammo to do so.
However, Brugler has the Rams staying in the back of the draft and selecting a rather surprising quarterback.
Indiana signal caller Fernando Mendezo.
“The fifth quarterback drafted in this mock, Mendoza was a pleasant surprise when watching the Cal offense this past season,” writes Bruglar. “He transferred to Indiana in the offseason, and it will be interesting to track his progress under Curt Cignetti.”
Mendoza finished last year with 3,004 yards passing, 16 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. He flew under the radar a bit, playing for a mediocre Cal team with a fairly stale offense.
He is certainly a candidate to break out this year at Indiana in Cignetti’s system. At 6’5, 225 pounds, he has great size for a QB, and is more athletic than many might think. It might not be a Jayden Daniels or Cam Ward ascention, but he will no doubt rise.
Thoughts, Ramily? Comment below.