Jim Everett points out a Rams strategy that's so obvious, everyone missed it

Many NFL draft analysts are openly criticizing the Los Angeles Rams' approach to restocking the roster throughout the 2026 NFL Draft. But there is one glaring flaw in their open criticism. There are multiple paths to building a roster, and the annual draft is just one option. Other options include promoting players to larger roles, signing free agents, and agreeing to trade with other NFL teams.

Trades involving LA have been rumored this season already. One rumor turned into a blockbuster trade. Another rumor hasn't happened yet. That rumor involved LA and the Philadelphia Eagles. While it didn't happen, it still could. After all, multiple things are presumed to be true. Let's run them all down:

• The LA Rams are in win-now mode
• To facilitate a trade of disgruntled veteran wide receiver AJ Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles have loaded their roster with wide receivers
• Los Angeles was one of the teams confirmed to be actively discussing trading for AJ Brown
• Philadelphia gets a huge break on its salary cap if Brown is traded after June 1st

And so, what if Los Angeles is planning to trade for Eagles veteran wide receiver AJ Brown after June 1? It's the type of move that has general manager Les Snead's fingerprints all over it, and that was not lost on legendary quarterback Jim Everett.

Would that satisfy the fans?

Rams roster is always open to improving

LA Rams fans know that general manager Les Snead is always seeking ways to upgrade the roster. And there is no question that adding AJ Brown to a wide receiver room that already includes both Puka Nacua and Davante Adams is a huge uptick.

It's also proven that it takes a very special type of rookie under unusual circumstances to even nudge the offensive needle. Puka Nacua is the lone exception, as he was thrust into an emergency starting role in 2023 and never looked back. Rookie running back Kyren Williams has been equally effective, but he did next to nothing in his rookie season.

While every NFL team is targeted with criticism at some point, detractors have to consider LA's track record. The team has already promoted Warren McClendon Jr. to starting right tackle in 2025 and is quite pleased with the results. The team lost veteran wide receiver Tutu Atwell, but he was a non-factor last season.

And this offense featured plenty of 13-personnel packages, and landed a formidable tight end in Max Klare who many draft analysts believe can be as productive in the NFL as veteran tight end Dalton Kincaid.

And then, there is a small matter of the pending AJ Brown trade. If the goal is truly to upgrade the offense in 2026, then Brown, and not a rookie, is the correct path to take. The problem is, draft analysts have blinders that view the draft as the singular source of NFL talent.

But as Jim Everett notes so profusely, they get it wrong this time. As always, thanks for reading.

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