Leveraging the 13th Pick: 3 Bold Targets for the Rams

Introduction

The Los Angeles Rams are in a pivotal position with the 13th pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. While discussions often hinge on the possibility of moving up, I propose we turn our attention to the potential of trading back. By doing so, they could secure additional assets while still landing top-tier talent. As fans, we should remain optimistic about the strategic moves the Rams might make.

The Current Landscape

After a notable trade that cost them dearly for Trent McDuffie, the Rams need to recalibrate their strategy. The importance of depth and versatility cannot be overstated as we dive deeper into the draft. Here are three players worth considering if the Rams decide to trade back:

Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn

Keldric Faulk is the kind of sleeper pick who could surprise many as he bursts onto the scene. This underrated edge rusher from Auburn may not be the first name that pops up in conversations about elite pass rushers, but he's a game-changer. The Rams might look to replace Byron Young, especially with Young's contract set to expire soon.

Faulk's relentless style showcases not just his ability to rush the quarterback but also his skill in defending the run. He embodies the fiery spirit that the Rams thrive on, and let's not forget how GM Les Snead might be swayed by his ties to Auburn.

Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Next up is Kenyon Sadiq, a dynamic talent whose versatility as a tight end and wide receiver is exactly what the Rams need. He could become a vital asset for quarterback Matthew Stafford, enabling him to tap into a plethora of offensive schemes.

Sadiq's impressive height and speed make him a nightmare for defenses, and with Coach Sean McVay's innovative play-calling, he could truly shine. Imagine Stafford distributing the ball to such a talent, providing matchup nightmares both inside and outside the box.

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Safety, Toledo

Finally, let's discuss Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a safety from Toledo, who promises to outshine expectations. Given Coach Chris Shula's emphasis on molding defensive backs, McNeil-Warren's aggressive nature could fit perfectly within the Rams' philosophy.

Shula's strategy to control the game by inducing passes means that drafting a player who thrives under pressure is crucial. McNeil-Warren has shown he can force turnovers and create chaos on the field, which resonates with Shula's approach. He could serve as a potential long-term successor to Kam Curl, integrating seamlessly into the team's defensive core.

Conclusion

As we gear up for the 2026 NFL Draft, it's essential to keep an eye on both the big plays and the finer details. The Rams hold the 13th pick, and if they choose to trade back, there's an exciting array of talents that can bolster their roster. It's time to harness the Rams' competitive spirit and see how they can capitalize on their position!

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: 3 intriguing targets if Rams trade back in Round 1