The Los Angeles Rams have demonstrated a keen eye for talent in recent drafts, consistently unearthing impactful rookies. Their success, spanning from Kyren Williams and Quentin Lake in 2022 to the standout 2023 class featuring Puka Nacua, Steve Avila, Byron Young, and Kobie Turner, showcases their ability to maximize late-round selections despite limited early-round picks.
However, the 2024 draft marked a shift, with the Rams draft making their first first-round selection since 2016. This class, remarkably, emerged as the NFL’s best rookie group of the past season, according to Pro Football Focus’ Bradley Locker. The Rams’ 2024 rookies collectively played the most snaps of any rookie class (7,649) and boasted a deep pool of contributors.
The 2024 Los Angeles Rams Draft Class Earns Top WAR
“Jared Verse, the Rams’ first first-round pick in eight years paid off right away, slotting sixth in PFF overall grade among qualified edge rushers en route to winning Defensive Rookie of the Year,” Locker wrote.
“Beyond Verse, Los Angeles set a strong defensive foundation with Braden Fiske (59 pressures), Kam Kinchens (73.7 PFF coverage grade) and Omar Speights (77.6 PFF run-defense grade), all of whom project to start again in 2025. Offensively, Jordan Whittington (78.9 PFF receiving grade) and Beaux Limmer (1,040 snaps) offered supplementary contributions.”
This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the Rams’ scouting department, even after the departure of director of scouting James Gladstone. Looking ahead, the team possess valuable draft capital, including picks at Nos. 26, 90, and 101, which they can leverage to address key positions or potentially secure their quarterback of the future.
Regardless of their draft strategy, they have cultivated one of the league’s most promising young cores, a testament to their front office’s astute scouting and drafting practices.
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