The Los Angeles Rams are encouraged to land Rob Havenstein's replacement in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Los Angeles Rams have a crucial draft ahead of them.
The Rams’ draft needs are straightforward: add an elite cornerback — or potentially two. Last season, the secondary was one of the team’s weakest units, limiting their ceiling despite a strong overall roster.
Addressing that gap in the draft gives Los Angeles the perfect opportunity to strengthen its position for the long term.
The Rams have two first-round picks in April, and many project they'll use the two picks on cornerbacks. However, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has L.A. using one of its two picks on upgrading the offensive line.
In Kiper's latest mock draft, he has the Rams selecting Clemson's offensive tackle, Blake Miller, with their No. 29 overall pick.
"Rob Havenstein retired, and Warren McClendon Jr . is entering the final year of his deal. That means there could be a big hole at right tackle. Miller has 54 career starts, and his game just keeps growing on me. In pass protection, he stays square and handles most pass-rush moves with ease. And as a run blocker, he can get to the second level to spring big gains. The blocking is so important to the Rams' excellent run game, and having a savvy right tackle is key.
"The Rams' first pick in this mock draft went to the defense (Jermod McCoy), but I really like the idea of L.A. adding to the offensive line with its second one," Kiper wrote
Miller is a force to be reckoned with, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 315 pounds. He could keep Matthew Stafford upright and his jersey clean.
According to NFL analyst Lance Zierlein, Miller has all the tools to be an elite tackle in the league.
"Ultimate iron man at right tackle with 54 career starts. Miller has unusual lateral quickness and fluidity in space despite playing too upright. His hands lack accuracy and command in both phases, but he can recover and make blocks with a finisher’s mindset. Miller is rarely beaten by rush games, but he has his edges attacked because of his hand issues. He will encounter difficulties at the next level without better pad level, core strength and cleaner technique. If he tightens up in those areas, Miller can become a solid NFL right tackle."
Miller has long arms, big hands, quick feet, and high awareness to twist and games with active feet. The 22-year-old is among the best tackles in the draft, and he proved that at Clemson, earning two First-team All-ACC nods.
Despite a big need at cornerback, the Rams should bolster the offensive line. Protecting Stafford is paramount, and injuries to any of the five starters could prove costly. Miller would be the kind of player who could infuse more competition into the line and be a strong backup and rotational player.