Draft expert hints Rams fans should brace for huge disappointment

Mock drafters can stop handing the Los Angeles Rams offensive tackles in the first round. Per ESPN's Matt Miller, it indeed seems likely they will use the 13th overall pick on a wide receiver, a position of need given the absence of a WR3 anywhere on the roster. In the past two seasons, LA has suffered a net loss of two contributors.

Despite a wide range of opinions, USC's Makai Lemon has emerged as the closest thing to a consensus choice for Los Angeles. Even general manager Les Snead couldn't help but concede his appeal as a prospect.

Miller's final pre-draft big board, however, casts uncertainty as to whether Lemon will be available. Top-ranked at his position, the latter clocks in at No. 8 overall, ahead of Carnell Tate (ninth), Omar Cooper (15th), and Jordyn Tyson (16th). 

If Miller's surprising final verdict proves clairvoyant, the Rams should brace for a dose of disappointment on draft day. Lemon may not be the pick, after all. 

Rookie Makai Lemon remains top Rams receiver prospect in 2026 draft

Los Angeles will not be bereft of intriguing options if Lemon is gone. Taking Cooper at 13 would feel a bit rich, but he would fit organizational preferences like a glove.

Tyson has a concerning hamstring injury and a lengthy record of health issues, but if his stock keeps sliding, the Rams could consider trading back to take him later in the first round.

Texas A&M's KC Concepcion is a prospect of growing popularity. Washington's Denzel Boston, whose NFL comparison is Puka Nacua, is an appealing candidate in the case of a trade-back.

In short, all will not be lost if Lemon is gone, but Miller ranks him as the No. 1 receiver in his class for good reason. No doubt, seeing him snapped up would sting. 

For a Super Bowl-ready roster, Lemon is an ideal fit. Despite popular pushback, he is not problematically limited by his capacity as a slot receiver. Miller highlights his "ability to create space and accumulate targets across the middle." Lemon has learned how to succeed without blazing speed or intimidating size: "He is agile and tough, knows how to vary his routes and wins with tempo over pure speed." 

Lemon's 1,156 receiving yards last season ranked eighth in the FBS and third among Power 4 programs. Whatever his limitations, critics can't question whether his production resulted from playing against soft competition in a weak conference. Lemon is a producer. 

Of course, all the reasons to like Lemon as fit for the Rams would only add to the disappointment of losing out. From the sound of it, GM Les Snead doesn't plan to trade up from No. 13. If Lemon is there, he's there. If not, he's not. While hoping for the former scenario, the Horns would be wise to prepare a palatable Plan B.