The Los Angeles Rams Draft Grade reflects a franchise balancing its present championship window with its long-term future. While the Rams remain one of the favorites to win Super Bowl LXI, they also used the 2026 NFL Draft to secure a potential successor to quarterback Matthew Stafford and reinforce key areas of the offense.
Sports Illustrated named the Rams’ loaded roster as their biggest reason for hope entering 2026. After reaching the NFC title game and adding Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie, Los Angeles looks built to win now. pic.twitter.com/RgHkxBL01W
— LA Rams Nation (@RamsNationCP) June 15, 2026
Round 1 (No. 13) Ty Simpson – QB, Alabama — Grade: A
Round 2 (No. 61) Max Klare – TE, Ohio State — Grade: B+
Round 3 (No. 93) Keagen Trost – OT, Missouri — Grade: A
Round 6 (No. 197) CJ Daniels – WR, Miami — Grade: B-
Round 7 (No. 232) Tim Keenan II – DL, Alabama — Grade: B+
LA Rams Overall Draft Grade: A-
The Rams entered the draft with only three selections during the first five rounds, making each pick particularly important. Their biggest move came at No. 13 overall when they selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. The decision generated plenty of discussion throughout the league. Some evaluators believed the Rams drafted Simpson earlier than expected, while others viewed him as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the class.
Los Angeles clearly views Simpson as the eventual heir to Matthew Stafford. Head coach Sean McVay has built one of the NFL’s most quarterback-friendly systems, allowing the rookie to develop behind a veteran starter rather than being forced into immediate action.
The Rams continued investing in the offense by selecting Ohio State tight end Max Klare and Missouri offensive lineman Keagen Trost. Trost may ultimately become one of the best values in the class, giving Los Angeles additional protection up front for both Stafford and Simpson.
On Day 3, the Rams added speed with Miami wide receiver CJ Daniels before addressing the defensive line with Alabama defensive tackle Tim Keenan II. While the draft lacked splashy defensive additions, the organization accomplished its primary objective: strengthening the offense while securing a long-term plan at quarterback.
NFL Rookie Minicamp Results
The Rams conducted rookie minicamp from May 8-10, though the event looked considerably different than many around the league.
Sean McVay once again emphasized classroom instruction, film study, and playbook installation over intense on-field work. The focus was helping young players understand expectations and begin their transition into the Rams culture.
As expected, Ty Simpson commanded the majority of attention. Coaches were reportedly impressed with the rookie quarterback’s command of meetings and ability to absorb information. Rather than evaluating physical tools, the organization focused on how quickly Simpson processed concepts and adapted to the offensive system.
With only five draft selections, much of the spotlight shifted toward the Rams’ undrafted free agent class. Running back Dean Connors, defensive lineman Wesley Bailey, and cornerback Nyzeir Fourqueran all emerged as early standouts while competing for practice squad and special teams opportunities. The Rams later rewarded the entire roster by canceling their mandatory June minicamp, citing strong participation and performance throughout organized team activities.
Los Angeles Rams 2026 Draft Grade: B
WAA added: 1.383 (9/32) (per PFF)
Pick 13 QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
I figured Simpson would go in the first round but I did not think it would be to the Rams. Simpson was the best QB in College Football last year before he suffered his illness… pic.twitter.com/NbbhaFiA57— Football Sickos (@FootballSickos) June 15, 2026
Los Angeles Rams Updated 2026 Win Total Projection
The LA Rams enter the 2026 season with one of the highest projected win totals in football. Most sportsbooks currently list Los Angeles at 11.5 wins, while many analytical models project even higher outcomes.
The optimism is easy to understand. The blockbuster acquisition of Myles Garrett transformed an already talented roster into one of the NFL’s most complete teams. Garrett joins a defense that was already among the league’s better units, giving Los Angeles arguably the most feared pass-rushing group in football.
The offense remains loaded as well. Matthew Stafford returns under center, Sean McVay remains one of the NFL’s elite play callers, and the Rams continue to surround their veteran quarterback with talent and protection. ESPN’s Football Power Index projects Los Angeles for a league-best 13.2 wins. ESPN analyst Mike Clay forecasts a 13-4 record, while numerous national analysts have picked the Rams to finish as the NFC’s No. 1 seed.
The biggest challenge may actually be the schedule. Los Angeles faces a difficult slate that includes matchups against several recent Super Bowl champions and playoff contenders. However, oddsmakers clearly believe the Rams possess enough talent to overcome playoff caliber obstacles as well as teams like the Arizona Cardinals.
The betting market has responded accordingly. The Rams currently sit among the favorites to win the Super Bowl, with many sportsbooks listing them between +600 and +700. For a team that won the offseason by landing Myles Garrett and continues to develop one of the NFL’s deepest rosters, expectations have never been higher.
The Rams have leaned into heavy personnel hard.
The TE room totaled 1,128 receiving yards and 17 TDs last season, thanks in large part to increased 13 personnel usage.
They led the NFL with 331 snaps in 13 personnel, and Matthew Stafford threw 22 TDs with a 134.8 passer rating… pic.twitter.com/JKiF5QeXLh
— DynastyAngleFF (@DynastyAngleFF) June 15, 2026
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