The Los Angeles Rams are currently positioned at No. 13 in the draft order, boasting a solidified offensive line. With Alaric Jackson securing the left tackle spot, Warren McClendon transitioning to a full-time starter in 2025, and Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson fortifying the interior, the Rams appear to have no immediate gaps to fill.
This advantageous situation opens the door for the Rams to select an offensive tackle anyway. Renowned NFL insider Ian Rapoport suggests that if one of the top three tackle prospects unexpectedly drops to the 13th pick, the Rams will likely consider drafting him—even without an immediate starting need—due to the immense value that comes from snagging a premium position player.
Rapoport’s Perspective: Planning for the Future
Rapoport emphasizes a forward-thinking strategy. The Rams aren’t merely assessing whether a new tackle could start in 2026; they are contemplating the state of their offensive line in 2027 and beyond. With McClendon having just one full year as a starter and facing looming contract decisions, as well as Avila entering the final year of his rookie deal, the urgency for future planning becomes apparent. The depth chart also reveals a lack of reliable backups.
Though the Rams may not require immediate help, they are in search of long-term solutions. By preemptively drafting a tackle, they avoid the scenario of scrambling to find replacements when the need arises the following year.
Key Prospects that Could Influence the Decision
This situation isn’t purely theoretical. The decision could hinge on specific players sliding down the draft board. Francis Mauigoa from Miami stands out as a plug-and-play power tackle, while Spencer Fano from Utah brings versatility and a solid starter profile. Meanwhile, Monroe Freeling from Georgia showcases developmental potential with elite physical attributes.
All three prospects are regarded as top-tier offensive linemen and have been frequently linked to the Rams in pre-draft discussions. Should any of them still be available when the Rams pick at 13, they may very well become the pivotal point of the draft.
Investing in Offensive Linemen: A Smart Move
Selecting offensive tackles in the first round carries a strong track record of success. Historically, first-round offensive linemen yield one of the highest “hit” rates in the draft. They tend to develop quickly, earn starting roles early, and protect their team’s most valuable asset: the quarterback.
Therefore, choosing a tackle—even without an immediate need—can be seen as a future-proofing strategy rather than an overreach. The Rams find themselves in a unique position where they can make a draft choice based on long-term benefits rather than short-term demands. Selecting an offensive tackle could solidify that future success.
Impact of the Rams’ Decision on Draft Dynamics
The Rams’ choice at No. 13 doesn’t just affect their roster; it reverberates throughout the entire first round. Teams picking between 15 and 25 would suddenly find themselves without access to one of the top tackles, potentially compelling franchises like the Eagles and Ravens—who might need offensive line reinforcements—to trade up. Such a scenario would require other teams to alter their draft strategies entirely.
This is a classic example of how draft dynamics can change. When one team makes an unexpected selection, it forces all following teams to reconsider their plans and strategies. The Rams, being in a non-desperate position with no immediate gaps to fill, hold a unique advantage. They can afford to wait and see how the board unfolds, ultimately taking the best long-term prospect available. Should that prospect be an offensive tackle, the Rams will seize the opportunity and set off a chain reaction that alters draft strategies across the league.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Rams find themselves in a power position at the 2026 NFL Draft. While their offensive line is currently stable, the potential to select a top-tier tackle could pave the way for long-term success and reshape the draft landscape for teams drafting behind them. As history shows, investing in offensive linemen often pays dividends and enables teams to maintain a competitive edge.
