The Los Angeles Rams’ first-round draft plans were thrown for a loop after the Dolphins traded wideout Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos. Instead of going with a top offensive playmaker, the Rams might be forced to go in another direction in the 2026 NFL draft.
To show how the trade changes things, Mel Kiper’s original March 17 mock draft, had Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson going to Hollywood to pair with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Instead, he pivoted to the Rams taking Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa at 13:
“The dominoes of the Jaylen Waddle trade impacted the Rams’ pick. I had Jordyn Tyson here as their new WR3 behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, but there’s no way Miami would let the top-tier receiver slip past No. 11. Instead, I’m pivoting the Rams’ selection to the right tackle position. Mauigoa started 42 games in college, over which time he put together some really good tape. He uses his strength to dominate pass rushers, and he can clear out running lanes. Warren McClendon Jr. is under contract for only one more season, and run blocking is so important in the Rams’ offense.”
L.A. had two first-rounders in this year’s draft until trading one to the Chiefs as part of the Trent McDuffie trade. Following the Waddle trade, Miami also has two first-round picks, having acquired the Broncos’ No. 30 selection in the trade.
With the Dolphins picking two spots ahead of the Rams in round one, wide receiver will be a necessity for them. Miami has parted ways with Waddle and Tyreek Hill this offseason. The cupboard is quite bare for incoming quarterback Malik Willis, who is probably regretting the move to South Florida with each passing day.
Los Angeles had a prime opportunity to go with one of the top wide receivers on the board at No. 13. Thanks to the trade, what could’ve been a luxury addition to the offense to give Matthew Stafford another playmaker to work with, more than likely will not happen now.
Draft plans can change in an instant after a blockbuster trade. The Waddle deal will not be the last move to shake up the top of the first round, but it has put Los Angeles in a tricky spot.
With a top wide receiver target now likely unavailable, the Rams might be forced to pivot and reshape their first round strategy.
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