As close as the 2025 NFL Draft is, it remains almost impossible to predict which prospects will be available for the Los Angeles Rams at No. 26 overall. There’s a chance they’ll be wiped out at the top of their draft board, which could lead to a trade down, but a premier prospect could also slip through the cracks and be a steal in Round 1.
In USA TODAY’s network mock draft, I picked for the Rams and came away with a standout defender who could transform the secondary. Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron fell into my lap at 26 and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to add one of the most versatile players in the class.
Ohio State tackle Josh Simmons was tempting, as were Emeka Egbuka and Luther Burden III, but Barron fills a more immediate need and can be a long-term starter at a key position.
This would likely be a dream scenario for the Rams, who fill arguably their biggest need with one of the best cornerbacks in the class. Barron can be a Day 1 starter outside or they can play him in the slot, deploying him similarly to how they used Jalen Ramsey during his prime in L.A. Barron’s versatility will appeal to Sean McVay and defensive coordinator Chris Shula, as will his physicality and instincts. He’s a perfect target for Los Angeles, even with playmakers such as Emeka Egbuka and Luther Burden III still on the board.
Barron should be high on the Rams’ board with his position flexibility and instincts in the secondary. He can line up across from No. 1 receivers on the outside or kick inside as a slot defender where he uses his physicality to make plays near the line of scrimmage.
The Rams have Ahkello Witherspoon and Darious Williams under contract through 2025 and both are exclusively outside cornerbacks, so in the event that Barron lands in L.A., he might start out in the slot.
Follow Rams Wire on X, Facebook and now Threads for more coverage!