Posts in category: Don Lichterman

The Los Angeles Rams have consistently proven their ability to discover gems in the NFL Draft, producing impactful players such as Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Jared Verse in recent years. Under the stewardship of general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have established a successful track record of turning draft picks into immediate contributors. The 2025 NFL Draft was no different, as the Rams worked strategically to bolster their roster with both proven talent and high-upside prospects. In this article, I will break down each of the Rams’ selections, offering detailed insights into how these picks will fit into the team and their potential to make an impact.

A Strategic Trade in Round 1

Round 1, No. 26: Traded to the Atlanta Falcons

The Rams entered the 2025 NFL Draft with eight total picks, including the 26th overall selection. However, instead of making a pick at No. 26, the Rams opted to trade down with the Atlanta Falcons. In exchange for their first-round pick, Los Angeles received the 46th overall pick, the 242nd pick, and a 2026 first-rounder. This move allowed the Rams to gain additional future capital while still positioning themselves to address their current needs.

By trading back, the Rams not only bolstered their 2026 draft outlook but also gained an extra seventh-rounder in the process. While they lost a first-round pick this year, this trade is a strategic move aimed at strengthening their roster both in the short and long term.

Round 2: A Playmaker at Tight End

Round 2, No. 46: TE Terrance Ferguson, Oregon

After moving back 20 spots, the Rams used their new No. 46 pick to select Terrance Ferguson, a standout tight end from the University of Oregon. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 247 pounds, Ferguson is a dynamic pass catcher who was highly productive in college. He set school records for both receptions (134) and touchdowns (16) by a tight end, showcasing his ability to make plays in critical moments. Ferguson’s size and playmaking ability will provide a valuable asset in head coach Sean McVay’s offensive system, which often utilizes tight ends in creative ways, including on screens and mismatched routes.

At Oregon, Ferguson was known for his ability to break tackles and make plays after the catch, a skill that could prove essential in the Rams’ offense. With Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson currently at the top of the tight end depth chart, Ferguson will have the opportunity to compete for playing time and possibly contribute immediately as a rotational piece.

Round 3: A Relentless Edge Rusher

Round 3, No. 90: OLB Josaiah Stewart, Michigan

In the third round, the Rams continued to build their defense by selecting edge rusher Josaiah Stewart from Michigan. Though edge rusher wasn’t a pressing need with established players like Jared Verse and Byron Young leading the way, Stewart adds depth and flexibility to the pass rush unit. Despite being a bit undersized at 6-foot-1 and 249 pounds, Stewart’s high motor and relentless playstyle have made him a disruptive force, as evidenced by his 8.5 sacks in the previous season.

Stewart’s energy and physicality will help the Rams’ defense rotate fresh bodies on the line, ensuring they have a deep and relentless pass-rush attack. His ability to contribute on special teams will also make him a valuable asset in his rookie season.

Round 4: A Quick, Tough Running Back

Round 4, No. 117: RB Jarquez Hunter, Auburn

The Rams have made a name for themselves by finding hidden gems at running back, and they continued that trend with the selection of Jarquez Hunter from Auburn in the fourth round. At 5-foot-9 and 204 pounds, Hunter might not have the size of a traditional power back, but his toughness and ability to break tackles set him apart. He runs hard between the tackles and is consistently able to generate yards after contact, which makes him an intriguing addition to the Rams’ backfield.

Although the Rams already have Kyren Williams and Blake Corum under contract through 2025, Hunter will likely compete for the role of the third running back on the roster. His speed (4.44 40-yard dash) and agility could make him a valuable weapon in both the running and passing game, especially in McVay’s scheme, which thrives on motion and outside runs.

Round 5: Bolstering the Defensive Line

Round 5, No. 148: DT Ty Hamilton, Ohio State

The Rams made a bold move to trade up 47 spots, securing defensive tackle Ty Hamilton from Ohio State. At 6-foot-3 and 299 pounds, Hamilton has the size and athleticism to make an impact along the defensive line. His 9.22 RAS score and 4.95-second 40-yard dash are strong indicators of his explosiveness and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Hamilton’s versatility and length will allow him to play multiple positions on the defensive line, helping the Rams establish a deeper rotation of pass rushers.

Hamilton will add much-needed depth to the Rams’ defensive line, and his speed and size make him a perfect fit in the team’s aggressive defensive scheme. This pick is a move towards fortifying the defensive front, similar to the approach the Philadelphia Eagles used last season to create a dominant, multi-layered pass rush.

Round 5: Adding Speed and Range to the Linebacking Corps

Round 5, No. 172: LB Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss

With linebacker being one of the Rams’ most significant areas of need heading into the draft, they addressed the position by selecting Chris Paul Jr. from Ole Miss. Paul, who was a finalist for the prestigious Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker, will bring speed and range to the Rams’ defense. His ability to cover ground quickly and make plays on the ball will be vital, especially as the team aims to shore up their second-level defense.

At 6-foot-1 and 222 pounds, Paul adds athleticism to a linebacker unit that already features Omar Speights, Troy Reeder, and Nate Landman. His range and instincts could help the Rams clean up their defensive coverage, especially in passing situations.

Round 7: A Sleeper Wide Receiver

Round 7, No. 242: WR Konata Mumpfield, Pitt

In the seventh round, the Rams took a chance on wide receiver Konata Mumpfield from the University of Pittsburgh. At 5-foot-11 and 186 pounds, Mumpfield isn’t the biggest receiver, but his productivity at Pitt over the last two seasons, where he led the team in receptions, is impressive. While his 40-yard dash time (4.59) and size may not turn heads, Mumpfield’s ability to make plays consistently is what caught the Rams’ attention.

Los Angeles is known for their development of wide receivers, often looking past athletic metrics in favor of players with solid hands and reliable route running. Mumpfield will likely have to earn his spot through special teams contributions, but there’s certainly a pathway for him to carve out a role in the Rams’ wide receiver group.

Overall, A Well-Balanced Draft for the Rams

The Rams’ 2025 NFL Draft was a well-executed strategy that balanced future planning with immediate roster needs. While trading down in the first round may have surprised some, it allowed them to acquire a valuable future first-round pick while still landing key contributors. From the selection of Terrance Ferguson to strengthen the offense, to the addition of Josaiah Stewart and Ty Hamilton for the defense, the Rams successfully addressed multiple areas of need with quality picks.

Each of these players brings a unique skill set to the table, and it’s clear that McVay and Snead have found another group of players who could make a significant impact for the team in the coming years. Whether they become immediate starters or contribute on special teams in their rookie seasons, the 2025 draft class has the potential to play a pivotal role in the Rams’ continued success.

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