Feb. 25, 2026, 12:07 p.m. PT
The Los Angeles Rams could make a first-round draft trade in consecutive years in this theoretical trade from Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport.
In 2025, L.A. traded back from No. 26 with the Atlanta Falcons to pick up an extra 2026 first-round pick. That turned into the No. 13 overall selection. L.A. currently owns that pick and their own selection at No. 29.
Davenport’s idea, though, would have the Rams move to the New Orleans Saints’ No. 8 pick without giving up the No. 13 selection. His potential trade includes the Rams sending No. 29, No. 93 (in the third round) and 2027 first-round pick to the Saints for only the No. 8 pick.
Such a trade could allow the Rams to essentially have their choice of any of the draft’s prospects at cornerback such as LSU’s Mansoor Delane (arguably the team’s biggest need). They could add an immediate upgrade on the offensive line in Miami’s Francisco Mauigoa, or get better at linebacker with Ohio State’s Sonny Styles. Caleb Downs could also be in play. Two impact players added to an already formidable roster.
Given Matthew Stafford’s return in 2026 and unclear future in 2027 and beyond, this would be a clear win-now, all-in move for L.A. As Davenport wrote, the Rams would be able to take two top-15 players with their first-round picks and then come back with the No. 61 pick in the second round. It also gives L.A. additional firepower to move up even more in the draft, if necessary.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
The Rams aren’t afraid to make bold moves, and this would certainly rise to that level in a season where Sean McVay and company want to capitalize on their roster before the Super Bowl window closes.
