3 prospects the Rams should avoid in the first round

The Los Angeles Rams currently own the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and while they have multiple options and should come away with a good prospect, here are three players they should avoid.

Any offensive tackle

Maybe Francis Mauigoa, but even he might not be worth the investment. The Rams do not need an offensive tackle. Alaric Jackson is fantastic and under contract through 2027. Warren McClendon Jr. played like one of the best right tackles in the league last season.

Not only do the Rams not need to address this position, but the money they would save from a potential extension for McClendon wouldn't come out to much in the long run, compared to other positions. It would be a waste, especially when the interior offensive line needs depth that could become starters next season.

Jermod McCoy

Nothing against McCoy or his playing ability, but the Rams need outside cornerback depth, and McCoy's injury history has too many red flags to ignore. The draft is loaded with cornerback talent, and the Rams need it, considering they only have Emmanuel Forbes Jr. as depth. Unless they pick up his fifth-year option, Forbes will be gone in one year and there's no one currently in development who has proven they can fill the role.

McCoy missed the 2025 season with a knee injury, which has created questions about his ability to perform in 2026 and what his long-term health will look like. This is a pick that could be on the team for five years. Health is wealth.

Ty Simpson

There are two reasons the Rams should pass on Simpson. They do not need Simpson now, as the team is looking for a veteran quarterback, and as Simpson develops, it will become quite evident that he isn't a fit for Sean McVay's scheme. Not the McVay offense, just the way McVay runs it.

McVay needs a veteran passer who doesn't need time to develop, because his team is in win-now mode and will be for most of Simpson's rookie deal. With Baker Mayfield expected to be a free agent next season, Joe Burrow being rumored as a potential trade option down the line, and with Jimmy Garoppolo available right now, there are more than enough veteran options to pluck from.