The Los Angeles Rams could upgrade their linebacker room through the draft by possibly adding Missouri's Josiah Trotter.
The Los Angeles Rams have very few weaknesses in their roster. The Rams did all they could this offseason to fix their holes, including their cornerback position.
The Rams will likely do what they can to bolster that department. According to ESPN's Matt Miller, the Rams could look to Missouri's Josiah Trotter to upgrade their linebacker group.
While that is the case, Los Angeles still has other roster needs to patch, one of which includes the linebacker position. After retooling the cornerback spot, the linebacker group stands out as the biggest remaining weakness for the Rams' defense.
Los Angeles holds the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. It is unlikely that the Rams will select a linebacker at that spot; rather, they'll likely go with a wide receiver or offensive line in the first round.
However, as for Day 2 or Day 3 in the draft, Los Angeles could certainly look at Trotter then. The first-team All-SEC linebacker in 2025 is projected to be a Day 2 selection, and that is when the Rams could make their move for him.
The Rams have recently shown an interest in a Day 2 linebacker, and Trotter is among those players they've had their eye on. Los Angeles has a history of not prioritizing a lienbacker, but it appears that could change this offseason.
If the Rams are searching for a physical, run‑stopping linebacker who can upgrade their front‑seven and develop into a core piece over time, then Trotter is their guy.
Trotter finished his collegiate career with 176 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 17 tackles for loss.
Run defense is Trotter's calling card, as he can erase run lanes before they can develop on a consistent basis. In addition, Trotter uses his heavy hands at the point of attack to create separation and disrupt linemen, while his lower-body strength allows him to maintain his position against double teams and stay balanced through contact.
The downside to Trotter is that he is not yet a polished, three-down pro, which is one of the reasons why he is projected to be a late Day 2 selection. Trotter's value certianly comes as an early downs, blitz packages, and a developmental linebacker.
The Rams have a young defense led by Jared Verse and Kobie Turner, particularly within the front seven. While the overall defense is talented, they are certainly lacking an elite veteran presence at linebacker to anchor that unit.