Rams' Myles Garrett trade just poured salt on 49ers draft gaffe

There is a viral reaction of San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch smirking when news of the Los Angeles Rams drafting quarterback Ty Simpson reached him. It was an ill-advised move on his part, as it triggered a closer inspection of his own 49ers draft gaffes. And it doesn't require a deep dive to find glaring examples of those.

But we have another opportunity to re-examine the Niners' use of draft picks. And as J.R. Tolkien once wrote, "Thrice pays for all." So it's almost a must to revisit the 49ers' exchange of three first-rounders to acquire the right to draft quarterback Trey Lance.

In stark contrast, that is one more first-round pick than the LA Rams spent to acquire both All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie and DPOY edge rusher Myles Garrett.

Worse still, Lance played just two seasons for San Francisco and was eventually traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a modest return of a Round 4 pick in 2024. Talk about a huge swing and miss.

Rams' all-in strategy prioritizes proven game-changers

No team is immune to the risk of draft disappointments. That uncertainty is why Los Angeles has powered its roster to by willingly trading first-round picks for game-changing veterans. As optimistic as organizations can be over the addition of draft picks, the odds of hitting on any given draft selection are far from guaranteed.

Yes, some young players meet expectations. Others fail to do so. Others somehow manage to exceed expectations. The Rams have managed to remain successful by finding diamonds in the rough late in the draft. LA's current offense, last season's top-scoring unit, boasts five players who were drafted on Day 3 or not at all.

That's a pretty good track record.

The Horns have not only doubled down on going all-in in 2026, they also appear content with a limited number of picks in 2027. As things stand now, Los Angeles has only four draft selections next year. But before fans grow alarmed, remember what the Rams spent their draft assets on. The overhauled defense will boast both Garrett and McDuffie as anchors up front and downfield.

And no, quarterback Lance will not be on the roster, the Rams' or the 49ers'. He'll be backing up Justin Herbert for the Chargers. How'd that trade work out for you, Mr. Lynch?

As always, thanks for reading.

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