We're less than a month away from finding out who the Los Angeles Rams will select with their first pick at No. 26 overall. That is, if they don't trade the pick and move out of Round 1 altogether.
As it stands right now, they're slated to pick near the end of the first, which makes it a challenge to predict which prospects will be available when they go on the clock. ESPN Analytics attempted to predict not only who will be on the board, but who the Rams will select.
Here are the 24 prospects ESPN believes have the best chance to be drafted by the Rams with the 26th pick.
OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State: 6.8%
Simmons would be a logical pick in that he fills a need at right tackle, even though he wouldn't be called upon to start right away with Rob Havenstein still in the mix. He'd be a good swing tackle, though.
CB Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State: 6.1%
Thomas is a popular pick for the Rams in mock drafts. He's a fringe first-rounder who could slip into the second, but the Rams need cornerback help and he brings good size and coverage skills to the position.
CB Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky: 5.6%
Hairston is a terrific athlete who can play man coverage and hang with all types of receivers thanks to his 4.28 speed and 5-foot-11 frame. He's also become a popular selection for the Rams in mocks.
DT Walter Nolen, Ole Miss: 5%
Nolen is a promising prospect but probably doesn't fit what the Rams need on defense, especially after signing Poona Ford.
DT Derrick Harmon, Oregon: 4.9%
Similar to Nolen, Harmon is unlikely to be drafted by the Rams because of their depth along the defensive line. There are bigger holes to fill.
OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon: 4.8%
Conerly was one of the most frequently projected picks for the Rams in early mock drafts before they re-signed Alaric Jackson. He'd still make sense for L.A. if they think he can play right tackle.
S Malaki Starks, Georgie: 4.4%
Starks is a versatile defender who can play safety or cover the slot, which would give Chris Shula a lot of options in the secondary.
CB Jahdae Barron, Texas: 4.2%
Rams fans should be encouraged to see Barron near the top of this list. He's one of the better defensive backs in the draft, showing the ability to play outside corner or in the slot. Many compare him to standout Lions DB Brian Branch.
OLB Mike Green, Marshall: 4.2%
Green will probably be selected before the Rams go on the clock and even if he makes it to 26, Los Angeles might pass on him to fill a more pressing need at another position.
WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State: 4%
Egbuka would fit perfectly with the Rams as their new slot receiver with Cooper Kupp gone. Puka Nacua and Davante ...
