Rams offseason refreshingly granted positive grade against trend of criticism

Yes, the Los Angeles Rams continue to be subjected to scathing remarks from former general managers. Even ESPN has harshly criticized LA's offseason efforts, based solely on the team's willingness to draft a future franchise quarterback. But before you tune out all expert opinions, hold out just a while longer.

At least one NFL analyst gives a refreshingly positive mark for the Rams' offseason moves. In fact, he awarded Los Angeles top honors. NFL.com's Matt Okada did not whine about one draft selection. Rather, he assessed the entirety of LA's offseason activity and found it to be the most fruitful in the league. And while that is a rather lofty assessment, he is likely right on track.

Unlike others who graded teams based on what they expected them to do, Okada offered a simple measure. Did the team improve its roster and competitiveness? Using that as a ruler, he found LA had checked nearly all the boxes. Not only did Los Angeles have a better offseason than any NFC West rival, but he assessed the Rams' activity as the best in the NFL.

So how did he see the NFC West?

NFL analyst Matt Okada gives honest takes on NFC West offseason

1 - Los Angeles Rams - A

It seems impossible to argue that the Horns did not emerge from the flurry of headlines with a far more competitive roster. By adding 2025 DPOY Myles Garrett, All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, and his Kansas City Chiefs teammate Jaylen Watson, the defense just supercharged its potential. And, yes, Okada detracts from his grade because the team drafted Ty Simpson.

2 - San Francisco 49ers - C+

San Francisco added wide receiver Mike Evans and extended offensive tackle Trent Williams. But both are past their prime. And unlike others who turned a blind eye to the 49ers' struggles in the 2026 draft, he cited their willingness to reach for suspect prospects as a detractor from what could have been an admirable A.

3 - Seattle Seahawks - D+

Finally. Someone gets it. With no newsworthy additions and the loss of running back Kenneth Walker III, edge rusher Boye Mafe, safety Coby Bryant, and cornerback Riq Woolen in free agency, there is no way to give Seattle a positive offseason grade. Worse still, the Seahawks' draft does not offer much to offset the exodus of very talented veterans.

4 - Arizona Cardinals - D-

Sometimes it takes a step back to take two steps forward. And the Cardinals did take steps to improve, but started the process by hiring former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur as their head coach. Then, the team cut quarterback Kyler Murray.

Drafting running back Jeremiyah Love may pay off, but not in 2026. Without much talent at quarterback, the offense has surrendered to the grind of rushing first. Hey, it's tough to improve from a 3-14 season. The Cardinals appear to be playing the long game and banking on an early draft pick in 2027 to add a franchise quarterback.

LA is not guaranteed to be a better team. But general manager Les Snead has certainly done his part to help this team be competitive in 2026. Thankfully, at least one NFL analyst gives him the credit that he deserves.

As always, thanks for reading.

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