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NFL analyst thinks OL prospect is a great fit for Rams
TL;DR
NFL analyst Scott Dochterman suggests that Iowa center Logan Jones could be an ideal fit for the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFL Draft. Although offensive line isn't a pressing need, the Rams may consider adding depth, especially with current center Coleman Shelton's contract expiring.
Offensive line isn't a clear need for the Los Angeles Rams, but there are some who believe the team should invest in the position at some point in the 2026 NFL draft to shore up one of the most important positions in the game.
While the Rams might not use their No. 13 overall pick on a lineman, there will be plenty of other opportunities to add depth throughout the draft. Whether or not they do remains to be seen, but The Athletic's Scott Dochterman believes Iowa center Logan Jones would be a great fit for L.A. if they went in that direction.
Jones (6-3, 299) has the measurables that will give some teams pause, especially those who prefer mass and power at the point of attack. Plus, as a pure center, Jones has limited position flexibility. But what he does well, he does at a high level.
As a four-year starter at Iowa, Jones followed his predecessor, Tyler Linderbaum, in moving from defensive line and built a similarly sterling career as a first-team All-American. Jones, however, is faster than Linderbaum â his 4.90-second 40-yard dash was the seventh fastest ever recorded by a center at the combine, just behind Jason Kelce. Jones also holds Iowaâs squat record (705 pounds), and his 470-pound hang clean ranks second only to Tristan Wirfsâ 500-pound explosion.
That quickness and explosiveness come out on video in Iowaâs zone scheme, which is identical to the Ramsâ style of play. Jones is cerebral and technically sound enough to start on day one for a Sean McVay-Kyle Shanahan style of play, without needing to put on more weight.
Current starting center Coleman Shelton is in the final year of his two-year deal, and while he was solid for L.A. in 2025, the team may want to find a long-term replacement at the position in the years to come. While he is a bit undersized, he has the experience and the collegiate pedigree that translate well at the next level.
Jones is expected to be in the third or fourth round, so he could be a target for L.A. with the No. 93 pick.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: NFL draft: Analyst thinks center Logan Jones is a great fit for Rams
Q&A
Why might the Rams consider drafting Logan Jones in 2026?
The Rams may consider drafting Logan Jones to secure a long-term replacement for current center Coleman Shelton, whose contract is expiring.
What are Logan Jones' key attributes as a center?
Logan Jones is noted for his speed, with a 4.90-second 40-yard dash, and technical skills that make him suitable for the Rams' zone scheme.
How does Logan Jones compare to Tyler Linderbaum?
Logan Jones, a four-year starter at Iowa, is faster than Tyler Linderbaum and holds impressive weightlifting records, showcasing his explosiveness and athleticism.
