Rams’ key free agent signing bolsters weakest position room, completely shifts NFL Draft strategy
The Rams’ signing of cornerback Jaylen Watson completely changes the game for their approach to the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Los Angeles Rams got free agency started off with a bang, signing cornerback Jaylen Watson to pair with recently-acquired Trent McDuffie. The tandem now give the Rams their starting duo at cornerback, solving their biggest weakness on the roster.
This approach in free agency now allows the Rams to attack the 2026 NFL Draft their way, keeping every possible option on the table. What does the Jaylen Watson signing mean for their NFL Draft strategy? How does it change the game at 13th overall?
3-round Los Angeles Rams mock draft after Jaylen Watson signing
Round 1, Pick 13: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The closer we get to the draft, I have grown more and more confident in the Rams making offense their first pick, and they do so here with Tyson. Tyson has the athletic tools and route-running finesse to be the heir apparent to Davante Adams as the X WR outside.
Additionally, with the incoming Puka Nacua extension, having a cheap wide receiver contract next to him is smart business all around to help the Rams navigate that cap hit.
Round 2, Pick 61: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
We’ll see if the Rams do end up attacking linebacker this offseason, but if they are serious about making the Super Bowl, they absolutely need to. Golday has the range and athleticism to be a massive upgrade for the Rams at the second level in all phases of the game. Despite his relative inexperience as a true LB, I think Golday’s coverage reps are encouraging, particularly in zone.
Golday would boost the Rams’ team speed immensely and allow them to unlock more of their defensive playbook without compromising their ability anywhere.
Round 3, Pick 93: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
Even with the addition of Watson and McDuffie, I still think the Rams should add at least one more outside cornerback in the offseason. They are an injury away from being forced to play Emmanuel Forbes again, something they might not be eager to do (I wouldn’t be).
Igbinosun is a physical, athletic specimen at cornerback who fits perfectly into the Rams’ new-look defense. New Rams’ assistant defensive backs coach Mike Hunter coached Igbinosun at Ohio State, and coould be a key cog in ensuring the Rams’ completely remake their secondary here.
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Expect the Rams to pull out all the stops in free agency this offseason.
