An anonymous NFL general manager says the Los Angeles Rams could prioritize defense with their first-round draft pick.
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The general manager told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that the Rams will move away from wide receiver expectations and look for a pass rusher early in the draft.
“But one general manager believes the Rams will pursue pass rushers at some point early in the draft because of rising contract costs for veteran pass rushers,” Fowler wrote. “(Byron Young is a free agent in 2027 and Jared Verse enters his third season).”
Fowler also added that the Rams have been linked to USC star receiver Makai Lemon. Lemon remains a strong possibility for the Rams; However, there is a possibility that they will take another path given their unpredictability.
Edge Rusher could elevate Rams defense
A pass rusher is not at the top of the position for Los Angeles and it is something that needs to be addressed. At the top of that list are a wide receiver, an offensive lineman and a linebacker.
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Those are by far the Rams’ biggest needs; However, adding a pass rusher wouldn’t hurt either. Potentially drafting a pass rusher is far from an urgent need; Still, it’s a top position in the sport. Even with the current group, which is solid, landing an elite pass rusher could take the Rams’ defense to another level.
On top of that, rotation depth is important, something the Rams didn’t have last season. Chris Shula’s defense works best when the front stays fresh and the pressure comes in waves. If there is an edge rusher available, the Rams can take a bite, depending on how things play out.
A wide receiver or offensive lineman tops the list, but a pass rusher may not be that far away.