March 20, 2026, 11:07 a.m. PT

The Los Angeles Rams aggressively attacked their weaknesses on defense this offseason, but they haven’t made any notable additions to the league’s No. 1-ranked offense. That plan could be reserved for the NFL draft next month where they have the 13th overall pick in Round 1.

The Athletic recently did a beat writer mock draft where each writer picked for their respective team, and the Rams had a fascinating decision to make in the first round. Both Makai Lemon and Jeremiyah Love were on the board and available for the Rams, but Nate Atkins went the more sensible approach.

He passed on Notre Dame’s star running back and took the USC wide receiver instead, giving Matthew Stafford another weapon.

It was mighty tempting to go with Love for a Rams team obsessed with finding upgrades. But that would likely mean trading one of Kyren Williams or Blake Corum, and that’s harder to work out in a mock draft. So the Rams fill their biggest actual need at wide receiver in Makai Lemon, who is fresh off a season with 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. Lemon appears ready to assume a strong Year 1 role as a receiver and a blocker before elevating to replace Davante Adams as the Robin to Puka Nacua’s Batman in Year 2. — Nate Atkins

Interestingly, Love went one spot later at No. 14 to the Ravens, who have Derrick Henry signed through 2027. The Rams already re-signed Kyren Williams to an extension and just drafted Blake Corum in the third round in 2024, but no one should rule out Los Angeles adding a back like Love.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.

In Lemon, the Rams get a talented slot receiver who’s tough to get on the ground when he’s in the open field.

Having an elusive receiver with his shiftiness would make life much easier for Stafford and rack up yards after the catch – something Nacua is a master of.

Lemon has been linked to the Rams this offseason, particularly after meeting with him at the NFL combine and then following Les Snead’s visit to USC’s pro day, where Lemon worked out for scouts. He could very well be one of their top targets at No. 13 – if he’s even available.