After the 2025 NFL Draft, most attention around the Los Angeles Rams has centered on their defensive shortcomings — particularly at linebacker and in the secondary. Despite selecting linebacker Chris Paul Jr., the Rams largely reinforced areas of relative strength rather than addressing these critical needs. Particularly at cornerback, where they did not draft or sign a rookie to their UDFA class.
But ESPN’s Aaron Schatz sees another, less obvious concern: the lack of a reliable third wide receiver. While the Rams boast a dynamic top duo in Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, the depth behind them remains thin and unproven.
Los Angeles Rams Need Another WR
“Davante Adams was a huge addition, but the departures of Cooper Kupp and Demarcus Robinson produced a net loss of one starting wide receiver,” Schatz noted. “Tutu Atwell is now the No. 3 option. He had a solid 2024 with 11.7% receiving DVOA to go with 42 catches for 562 yards, but he’s not regarded as a starting option around the league. And the depth behind him is poor.”
The Rams’ receiving corps beyond Atwell includes Jordan Whittington, who tallied 22 catches for 293 yards as a sixth-round rookie, and Xavier Smith, who contributed just two receptions for six yards. Their only addition in the draft was Pittsburgh’s Konata Mumpfield, taken in the seventh round.
“Los Angeles might not need a No. 3 receiver that often, though, as drafting Terrance Ferguson in Round 2 indicates more two-TE personnel groupings,” Schatz added.
Still, relying on tight ends like Ferguson or veteran Tyler Higbee to fill that third receiving role raises questions about offensive versatility. Atwell and Whittington may offer contrasting skill sets — speed versus route precision — but neither has proven to be a consistent threat.
If the Rams want to maximize Matthew Stafford’s final prime years and fully realize their offensive potential, a veteran addition from the free agent market at wide receiver may still be on the table.
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