NFL insider Mel Kiper Jr. believes the Los Angeles Rams' draft strategy will alter after the Miami Dolphins traded away star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.
The Los Angeles Rams have had a strong offseason thus far.
They immediately went ahead and fixed one of the biggest weaknesses on their team from last season: the cornerback position. Los Angeles added All-Pro Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, two former Kansas City Chiefs champions.
The front office has made it a point not to waste time during the offseason. The Rams hold the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and considering how their offseason has gone, many think they will add to their offense and select an elite pass catcher.
However, long-time NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believes the Rams' draft strategy will pivot tremendously. Kiper said that the Dolphins trading away Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos might force Los Angeles to go in a different direction.
Kiper's latest mock draft has the Rams selecting Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa at 13. Before, Kiper had Los Angeles drafting Arizona State wide receiver, Jordyn Tyson.
“The dominoes of the Jaylen Waddle trade impacted the Rams’ pick," Kiper wrote. "I had Jordyn Tyson here as their new WR3 behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, but there’s no way Miami would let the top-tier receiver slip past No. 11. Instead, I’m pivoting the Rams’ selection to the right tackle position. Mauigoa started 42 games in college, over which time he put together some really good tape. He uses his strength to dominate pass rushers, and he can clear out running lanes. Warren McClendon Jr. is under contract for only one more season, and run blocking is so important in the Rams’ offense.”
Kiper now has the Miami Dolphins selecting Tyson. The Dolphins hold the No. 11 pick in this year's draft.
With the Dolphins trading away Waddle, they are now in desperate need of a wide receiver. This offseason alone, they lost Waddle and All-Pro Tyreek Hill. Miami is starting fresh, and Kiper believes they'll do that in April's draft.
The Rams don't desperately need an offensive lineman, but it doesn't hurt to get more protection for Matthew Stafford.
Mauigoa is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the draft and arguably the best offensive tackle in the class. Any team would be fortunate to land him, given his talent and upside
The 20-year-old has established himself as a premier player. He is a highly experienced and durable three-year starter with the Hurricanes. Mauigoa excelled in pass protection and the run game.
The Rams will have their fair share of options to choose from with the 13th overall pick, despite the position group they decide to focus on.