As the Los Angeles Rams approach the 2025 NFL Draft, their focus shifts toward fortifying a roster that has shown resilience under head coach Sean McVay and quarterback Matthew Stafford. After a 2024 season that highlighted both their potential and their vulnerabilities, the Rams are poised to address critical needs, particularly in the secondary, where depth and talent have been inconsistent. With the 26th overall pick in the first round and a series of selections through Day 3, this mock draft outlines a strategic plan to rebuild the secondary while adding complementary pieces on offense and defense. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Rams’ 2025 mock draft, featuring key prospects like Shavon Revel, Zy Alexander, Jaylen Higgins, Tyler Shough, Phil Mafah, Brandon Adams, and Jalen McLeod.
Round 1, Pick 26: Shavon Revel, CB, East Carolina
The Rams kick off their draft by addressing one of their most pressing needs: a high-upside cornerback to anchor the secondary. Shavon Revel, a standout from East Carolina, brings elite physical traits to the table. At 6’3” and 193 pounds, Revel combines rare size with exceptional athleticism, making him a prototypical outside corner in today’s NFL. Despite missing the 2024 season due to a knee injury, his pre-injury tape showcases a player with a 4.2-second 40-yard-dash speed, fluid hips, and a knack for disrupting receivers at the catch point.
Revel’s selection at No. 26 represents a calculated gamble on his recovery and potential. The Rams’ secondary has relied heavily on aging veterans and unproven youth, and Revel’s ability to match up against bigger receivers like those in the NFC West (think DK Metcalf or Brandon Aiyuk) could transform their defensive outlook. His length and closing speed make him an ideal fit for a zone-heavy scheme, though he’ll need time to refine his technique after missing a year of competitive play. Paired with the Rams’ recent investments in the defensive line (Jared Verse and Braden Fiske), Revel could be the cornerstone of a revitalized defense.
Round 3, Pick 90: Zy Alexander, CB, LSU
Continuing their emphasis on the secondary, the Rams double down at cornerback with Zy Alexander from LSU at pick 90. Alexander’s senior season in Baton Rouge was a breakout campaign, as he demonstrated sticky coverage skills and a penchant for making plays on the ball. With a 46.2% completion rate allowed when targeted and an impressive 19.2% forced incompletion rate, Alexander proved he could hold his own against SEC competition—a strong indicator of NFL readiness.
At 6’2” and 195 pounds, Alexander complements Revel with similar size and physicality, giving the Rams a pair of long, rangy corners to combat the pass-heavy offenses in their division. His ball skills and instincts in man coverage add versatility to the secondary, allowing defensive coordinator Chris Shula to mix up schemes. While Alexander may not have the elite top-end speed of Revel, his football IQ and toughness in run support make him a well-rounded addition. This pick signals the Rams’ commitment to overhauling their defensive backfield with young, high-ceiling talent.
Round 3, Pick 101: Jaylen Higgins, WR, Iowa State
With their second third-round pick, the Rams pivot to offense, targeting Iowa State wide receiver Jaylen Higgins to bolster their passing attack. At 6’2” and 205 pounds, Higgins offers a big-bodied target for Matthew Stafford, who thrives when he has reliable weapons in the middle of the field. Higgins’ 2024 season showcased his ability to win contested catches and generate yards after the catch, traits that align perfectly with Sean McVay’s offensive philosophy.
The departure of Cooper Kupp, combined with Puka Nacua’s emergence as a star, leaves the Rams needing a complementary piece in the receiving corps. Higgins’ route-running polish and strong hands make him an immediate contributor, capable of stretching defenses vertically or working underneath. While not a burner, his physicality and ability to shield defenders could make him a favorite target on third downs. This selection ensures the Rams maintain offensive firepower while they rebuild elsewhere.
Round 4, Pick 127: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville
At pick 127, the Rams take a developmental swing at quarterback with Louisville’s Tyler Shough. With Matthew Stafford turning 37 in 2025 and carrying an injury history, the team needs a long-term plan for the position. Shough, a 6’5”, 225-pound passer, brings intriguing tools to the table: a cannon arm, good size, and enough mobility to extend plays. His 2024 season at Louisville highlighted his ability to push the ball downfield with precision, though his inconsistent intermediate accuracy and extensive injury history temper expectations.
Shough’s selection is a classic “sit-and-learn” move. Under Stafford’s tutelage and McVay’s quarterback-friendly system, he has the chance to refine his footwork and decision-making. While he turns 26 during his rookie season—raising questions about his upside—his arm talent and low pressure-to-sack rate (8.9% in 2024) suggest he could develop into a quality backup or spot starter. The Rams aren’t replacing Stafford yet, but Shough provides insurance and a potential bridge to the future.
Round 6, Pick 195: Phil Mafah, RB, Clemson
In the sixth round, the Rams add depth to their backfield with Clemson running back Phil Mafah. At 6’1” and 230 pounds, Mafah is a bruising power back who excels between the tackles and in short-yardage situations. With Kyren Williams established as the lead back and Blake Corum waiting in the wings, Mafah offers a different dimension—a physical runner who can wear down defenses late in games.
Mafah’s 2024 season at Clemson showcased his ability to break tackles and churn out tough yards, though he lacks elite speed or receiving chops. His role in Los Angeles would likely be situational, spelling Williams on early downs or pounding the rock in goal-line packages. The Rams’ run-heavy identity under McVay makes Mafah a sensible late-round addition, enhancing their depth and versatility in the backfield.
Round 6, Pick 201: Brandon Adams, CB, UCF
The Rams triple down on their secondary rebuild with UCF cornerback Brandon Adams at pick 201. At 6’1” and 190 pounds, Adams fits the profile of the tall, physical corners targeted earlier in this draft. His 2024 tape shows a player with solid instincts in zone coverage and a willingness to mix it up in run support, though he lacks the elite athleticism of Revel or Alexander.
Adams’ value lies in his versatility and depth potential. He can compete for a roster spot as a backup outside corner or contribute on special teams, where his size and tackling ability shine. While he’s not a Day 1 starter, his selection reinforces the Rams’ strategy of flooding the secondary with young talent, ensuring competition and injury protection. In a division with potent passing attacks, this depth could prove invaluable.
Round 6, Pick 202: Jalen McLeod, EDGE/LB, Auburn
Closing out their draft, the Rams bolster their pass rush with Auburn edge rusher Jalen McLeod at pick 202. At 6’1” and 235 pounds, McLeod is a twitched-up athlete with a quick first step and relentless motor. While undersized for a traditional defensive end, his explosiveness off the line and ability to bend the edge make him an intriguing developmental prospect.
With Jared Verse and Braden Fiske already anchoring the defensive front, McLeod adds depth and situational pass-rush juice. His college production at Auburn—highlighted by consistent pressure totals—suggests he can carve out a role as a rotational piece. Under the guidance of the Rams’ coaching staff, McLeod could refine his technique and become a steal this late in the draft, rounding out a class heavy on defensive upside.
Draft Summary and Outlook
This 2025 mock draft reflects a clear priority for the Los Angeles Rams: rebuilding a secondary that has been a weak link in recent years. Shavon Revel, Zy Alexander, and Brandon Adams form a trio of tall, physical corners capable of transforming the back end of the defense. Paired with existing talent and a stout defensive line, this infusion of youth could elevate the Rams into a top-tier NFC unit.
Offensively, Jaylen Higgins and Phil Mafah add depth and flexibility to McVay’s scheme, while Tyler Shough offers a high-upside project at quarterback. Jalen McLeod’s selection ensures the pass rush remains a strength, even if he’s a late bloomer. With Matthew Stafford still at the helm and a roster trending younger, this draft class positions the Rams to compete in 2025 while building for the future. If Revel and Alexander hit their ceilings, the secondary could go from a liability to a strength overnight—a coup for a franchise aiming to reclaim Super Bowl glory.
For more discussion on the Los Angeles Rams, please visit The Rams Forum
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.