NFL expert hints that Rams next extension may be the last player fans think of

Who is the next player due for an extension from the Los Angeles Rams? There are many worthwhile candidates, as the rookie class of 2023 is now eligible for new and much more lucrative NFL contracts. Thinking back, that rookie class of 2023 was jam-packed with talented players who showed up much better than expected.

Will it be phenomenal wide receiver Puka Nacua? What about The Conductor, Kobie Turner? What about interior offensive lineman Steve Avila? And who would dare exclude one of the NFL's premier pass rushers, outside linebacker Byron Young?

Well, Essentially Sports NFL analyst Tony Pauline hints that the team's top extension at this point is offensive tackle Warren McClendon Jr. And, believe it or not, he makes sense.

He seemed to have LA's pulse before the team extended defensive back Quentin Lake. And his logic is sound. Securing the starting right tackle after one solid season of work makes financial sense. The uncertainty lingers over whether McClendon has what it takes to start 17 games. But his performance was undeniably better than expected.

Warren McClendon Jr. just simplified Rams draft excursion

Warren McClendon Jr. entered 2025 as the LA Rams swing tackle. That is, he was dually trained to perform at either left or right tackle. But he stepped into his own in training camp, outperforming seasoned veteran offensive tackles David Quessenberry and DJ Humphries to step up as a starter.

Right now, general manager Les Snead has the best opportunity to sign McClendon to a team-friendly deal. Offensive line coach Ryan Wendell did a masterful job of getting his players prepared for the 2025 NFL season. McClendon was the crown jewel of the offensive line, as he truly anchored the right side after veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein was injured.

And despite a deep right tackle crop of rookies clamoring to make their mark in the NFL, McClendon's proven track record may have taken Snead out of the offensive tackle market before the draft ever arrives.

As long as he feels McClendon will sign an extension for a reasonable sum.

For the fifth-round tackle, an early extension grants instant job and financial security. And the coaching staff was quite pleased with his performance. In essence, McClendon played himself into a promotion.

The only remaining glaring need for the offensive line group is to ensure the presence of a new swing tackle for the 2026 NFL season. Tony Pauline got it right with the Quentin Lake extension. Let's see if he still has the pulse of the team over his latest conjecture about an extension.

As always, thanks for reading.