The Los Angeles Rams must address these three key positions on defense if they want to hoist another Lombardi Trophy in their home stadium.
The Los Angeles Rams have a ton of big decisions to make as the 2026 NFL Draft looms large.
The Rams have a total of seven picks in the draft, including their highly coveted 13th overall pick. Though there is a chance they may choose to trade out of the first, securing young talent is a must, especially on the defensive side of things.
Los Angeles will remain aggressive in bolstering the roster, and if they want to get over the hump, addressing these three key defensive positions will be essential.
While the Rams have multiple directions they could take on the defensive side of the ball, prioritizing these areas should be a top focus moving forward.
Cornerback
We know, we know, the Rams immediately went on to bolster the defensive backs, adding Jaylen Watson and All-Pro Trent McDuffie; however, more depth in that position could never hurt.
On top of that, outside of those two, the room looks a little bleak. Using their 13th overall pick on a cornerback could be a stretch, but possibly with their second or third pick could do the trick.
Linebacker
The Rams have rarely prioritized the linebacker position, and it’s starting to show in terms of depth. Outside of Nate Landman, the group lacks proven, reliable options who can impact the game on a play-to-play basis, no matter the situation.
Los Angeles could, and has been rumored to address that need in free agency; however, drafting a young, dynamic linebacker could pay off immediately and in the long-run. Adding speed and versatility in that area would help stabilize the unit and give the Rams a more complete front-seven.
Edge Rusher
Rams star defender Jared Verse has established himself as a premier edge rusher in the game; however, it doesn't have to stop there. Adding another edge rusher would take this defense to another level.
As things stand, the pass rushers include Verse, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske and Byron Young. It's a promising group as we witnessed last season, but depth and rotation still matter over the course of a full season.
Drafting another playmaker would take the edge off those four and not only strengthen the pass rush but also help keep everyone fresh, which becomes critical late in games and deep into the season.
The Rams were hurt by the lack of depth in the playoffs last season, and Les Snead will need to do all he can to avoid that in 2026.