Grading Rams' selection of CJ Daniels in 6th round of 2026 draft

It wouldn’t be a draft without Los Angeles Rams GM Les Snead making at least one trade. He struck a deal with Philadelphia Eagles GM Howie Roseman for the 197th overall pick, trading up 10 spots to select Miami wide receiver CJ Daniels.

Daniels was the Hurricanes’ No. 2 receiver last season, finishing with 50 catches for 557 yards and seven touchdowns. He was one of Carson Beck’s favorite weapons after spending 2024 at LSU, having a major impact on Miami’s run to the national title game.

It’s surprising that the Rams addressed the offense with their first four picks of the draft after being the top-ranked unit last season, but Daniels fills a void on the depth chart – both immediately and long-term.

He’ll have a chance to step in right away and compete for the WR3 spot behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Konata Mumpfield and Jordan Whittington will also battle for that spot, as will Xavier Smith. But Daniels offers a better ability to make contested catches, which could make him a friendly target for Matthew Stafford.

There’s a chance Daniels would’ve fallen to the Rams at No. 207 but at the cost of just two seventh-round picks, it was a price worth paying to move up 10 spots and ensure they got their guy.

He’s not a burner, nor a top-tier athlete, but he makes difficult catches look easy and isn’t afraid to battle defenders for the ball in traffic. The Rams have never prioritized athleticism at the position anyway, so he fits the mold in that sense.

It’s important for Daniels to excel in those contested-catch situations because he doesn’t necessarily create easy separation. So most of his targets will be with defenders on him, but his strong hands allow him to reel in those tough grabs.

The Rams didn’t address wide receiver as early as many expected, but they got a good one with Daniels.

Grade: A-