What is worst case scenario for Rams in 2026 Draft?
The Rams have flexibility in the 2026 NFL Draft, but one mistake could derail their Super Bowl window.
Jan 10, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) reacts in the first half during the NFC Wild Card Round game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images There’s no doubt that the Los Angeles Rams will have options in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, despite having so many options, they need to be able to get it right.
While they need players who can contribute right away, they need to balance that with players that they can build around for the future. Building around Matthew Stafford needs to be the priority. At the same time, if the Rams mortgage the future like they did in 2021, Stafford won’t be around to keep them competitive if they take that same route.
Pro Football Focus recently laid out the worst-case scenario in the 2026 NFL Draft for each team in the NFC . When it comes to the Rams, contributor John Kosko wrote that the worst-case scenario for the Rams would be trading 2027 and 2028 picks while failing to add impact players in what could be Matthew Stafford’s last season. Said Kosko, “Matthew Stafford has flirted with retirement the past few years, as he’s dealt with nagging injuries.
At 38, he isn’t getting any younger. At the same time, Stafford is coming off the best season of his career, finishing the regular season with an elite 93. 3 PFF passing grade — marking his first time posting a 90.