Latest draft intel could potentially drop Los Angeles Rams’ interest in frequently-linked target in the first round
The latest NFL Draft intel surrounding USC Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon could be a turn off for the Los Angeles Rams.
Throughout the pre-draft process, USC wide receiver Makai Lemon has been frequently linked to the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams haven’t hidden their interest in a wide receiver, and Lemon is a local product.
While I have my own misgivings about who he is as a prospect and his fit with the Rams, there is a reason he is considered a first-round pick.
However, the latest bit of intel could suggest the Rams might not be keen on him.
Could the Los Angeles Rams be out on Makai Lemon pre-draft?
In ESPN’s article discussing the draft’s most polarizing prospects, Lemon was one of the top standouts. A huge topic of discussion has been Lemon’s off the field personality and attention to detail, something ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler highlighted.
A quote from an NFL executive caught my eye. “What are you getting? Love that dude, watching him last year, but evaluating him through the spring, which version of this player will show up in my building? He didn’t test great, had a couple of rough interviews from what I’ve been told. Seems like something is missing, or maybe I’m missing something.”
Another NFL personnel source said Lemon’s recall and detail of USC’s offense was not the strongest during a team interview.
Jeremy Fowler
The Rams are huge proponents of interviews. Remember that it was Puka Nacua’s acumen and IQ that sold the Rams on him pre-draft.
At BYU, Sugarman spent several hours breaking down film with Nacua and came away floored by his energy, schematic knowledge, recall and quick grasp of new concepts. “He was talking like he was a coach,” Sugarman said. “He was teaching (the offense). He knew every player’s job, including the linemen.”
This applies to other receivers the Rams have drafted recently as well. Jordan Whittington was universally praised for his football IQ coming out of Texas. Konata Mumpfield’s maturity drew plenty of praise from Sean McVay.
These interviews are huge for the Rams as part of their JAARS scouting system. If Lemon is a red flag interview, however, the Rams might not be comfortable spending a high pick on him.
Additionally, the Rams have to keep in mind the Puka Nacua situation. While it isn’t fair to say that Lemon has done or will do the same antics, if he is a red flag off the field in whatever way, the Rams might not want to put up with that while also dealing with Nacua’s situation.
We still have a few weeks until the 2026 NFL Draft. The buzz between Lemon and the Rams probably won’t slow down anytime soon. We’ll see what ends up happening, but it could be interesting to see what the Rams do if Lemon is on the board when they pick.
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