The Los Angeles Rams are eyeing a big splash in the 2026 NFL Draft, with USC wide receiver Makai Lemon catching their attention. Head coach Sean McVay is likely eager to see Lemon don the Rams' colors, offering an explosive addition to their lineup. Lemon would seamlessly fit in as the No. 3 receiver, poised to eventually take over from veteran Davante Adams.
But the Rams aren't the only team with Lemon on their radar. With the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins also in the mix, there's a possibility Lemon might be off the board by the time the Rams make their pick. If that scenario unfolds, and only Jordyn Tyson remains, the Rams will need to weigh his injury history carefully.
This uncertainty means McVay and general manager Les Snead must have a solid Plan B. Trading back to select Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. or Washington's Denzel Boston could be a savvy move. Both receivers, while not matching Lemon's production, have had standout seasons as their teams' top targets and could fill the Rams' third receiver spot in year one.
Cooper, a key player for Indiana, racked up 937 yards and 13 touchdowns, emerging as the Hoosiers' go-to guy. Standing at 6 feet and 204 pounds, he offers reliable hands and versatility, capable of making plays both inside and outside. His performance in Indiana's National Championship win over Miami, where he logged five catches for 71 yards, highlights his potential.
Boston, on the other hand, is a towering presence at 6-foot-4 and 209 pounds. Despite a late-season ankle injury, he managed 62 catches for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns. His ability to win 50-50 balls makes him a valuable asset, especially in pressure situations where Matthew Stafford could rely on his size and skill.
Boston's strength lies in the midrange game, making him a perfect fit for a timing-based offense. His comparison to Puka Nacua suggests he could be a valuable successor to Adams as the No. 2 option.
Meanwhile, Cooper's 4.42 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and comparison to Deebo Samuel speak to his dynamic playmaking ability. His versatility and potential to generate scrimmage yards make him an exciting prospect.
If Lemon isn't available, the Rams' backup plan of trading back and securing either Cooper or Boston, along with additional assets, is a strong strategy. No matter how the draft unfolds, the Rams are set on adding a talented receiver to their roster.