The Rams traded pick #26 overall to the Falcons. In exchange, they received a second-round pick this year and a first-round pick next year. This makes perfect sense for the Rams, who can now grab someone impactful on Day 2. They’ve also loaded up for next year’s draft to take their future franchise QB. Here are a few reasons this move makes perfect sense for the Rams.
Reloading Their Second Round Pick
Going into the draft, the Rams didn’t have a second-round pick. By moving back, they now have the chance to grab someone on day 2 at 46 overall. Everyone knows the gulf between the 25th and 45th best player in the class is historically low. The Rams will probably grab someone just as exciting at 46 overall. They also picked up a 7th rounder in the trade, so if they want to package some picks to move back up, they could.
The Best Available Wasn’t That Good
Rumor is that the Rams were interested in a tight end, especially Colston Loveland (who went 10th overall to the Bears). Given that Loveland and Warren went early, the value at tight end just wasn’t there at 26. However, Mason Taylor or Elijah Arroyo are reasonable TE targets in the second round. They could have gone corner at 26, but perhaps they liked Jahdae Barron most. Either way, only two corners went in the first round, so they could easily find a corner they love at 46 or even in Round 3.
They Fleeced the Falcons
I’m not sure what the Falcons were thinking with this trade. Giving up a future first to grab their second pass rusher of the draft (and the fifth off the board) seems like a reach. For the Rams, having an additional first-round pick in next year’s draft could be massive as they look to replace Matthew Stafford. Two firsts could easily be the package that lets them move up to get their future franchise guy if the draft falls in their favor. Or they could reload with two first-round starters and make yet another final push with Stafford. The value for moving down 20 picks was too good to pass up, and the Rams benefit from the Falcons’ overreach.
Their Needs Could Still Be Met in the Second Round
The Rams seemingly missed out on the TE they were targeting. But there are two strong possibilities at TE still available in the second round in Arroyo and Taylor. In addition, their positions of need haven’t been picked through quite yet. As mentioned, only two corners went, so they might still find their favorite at 46. Also, only one linebacker was picked, another position the Rams could look to load up at. Ultimately, the Rams have plenty of flexibility and options at 46, and they got paid handsomely to move down to that pick. The outlook for Day 2 is very bright!
