Rams' smoke meter zeroes in on 3 draft targets Les Snead can't quit

The Los Angeles Rams are armed with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, thanks to a 2025 trade with the Atlanta Falcons. But as wonderful as the opportunity to select so early in the draft may seem, fans have not had many opportunities to experience such a team-altering selection.

It's not fair to place so much pressure on one rookie, one selection, in any draft. Or is it? Let's be clear. If general manager Les Snead is unsatisfied with his options on Day 1, he will be inundated with phone calls from other NFL general managers willing to make a selection there. And if the trade offer is right, he may be willing to defer making a choice. But let's assume Snead loves his choices.

To give fans and readers some discussion points, we've developed a scale for comparing prospects. Let's call it a smoke meter, and it comes with the following scale.

Smoke Meter (1–10)
1 – Spark
2 – Flicker
3 – Small flame
4 – Steady burn
5 – Heating up
6 – Gaining heat
7 – Hot
8 – Very hot
9 – Blazing
10 – Full blaze

The point is not to establish a final verdict on various rookies. This is a discussion point, one that establishes healthy and vibrant discussions among fans and readers. Seasoned fans know that it's wiser to fall in love with a position than a player in the NFL draft. But as the draft approaches, it's time to fly your true fan flag.

Which rookie selections warrant a celebration on Day 1 of the draft? Here are three deserving of a standing ovation:

Rams' smoke meter reveals 3 draft targets Les Snead can't quit

WR Jordyn Tyson (smoke meter 6)

Many fans and NFL analysts envision Les Snead addressing the wide receiver position on Day 1, and multiple intriguing rookie prospects warrant consideration. But one who has forced his way back into the conversation is wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. Originally suffering from medical concerns due to an injury, Tyson calmed fears with an outstanding performance at a special workout.

He performed so well that he is projected to be selected among the top 10 rookies. But if he falls to 13, LA would be a solid landing spot. Tyson's fragility may remain a concern, but he would not be ridden hard in an offense that already features Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. His skill set is such that he could still carve out a solid role in head coach Sean McVay's offense.

WR Makai Lemon (smoke meter 7)

Perhaps an even better reason to celebrate would be selecting USC's versatile receiver, Makai Lemon. While he may not jump off the page as the typical receiver for LA's offense, his 5-foot-11, 192-pound frame has been incredibly productive. And he can line up virtually anywhere on the offense, giving McVay a new weapon and opening an entirely new chapter in the offensive playbook.

Lemon is a no-frills producer. He doesn't blaze speed. He doesn't bowl over would-be tacklers. He uses a combination of smarts, finesse, and precision to put up significant production on the football field.

QB Ty Simpson (smoke meter 8)

When ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick mentions a rookie who is ideally suited for the LA Rams, it's time to sit up and listen. When NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky loves what he sees from the same rookie, it's time to get excited. Even draft analyst Todd McShay hints that Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson could be selected as early as sixth overall.

If you compile all the existing evidence available right now, fans have every right to pop the champagne if Ty Simpson falls to the team at 13th overall. Until he gets a chance to prove his NFL readiness on a football field, he appears to be everything this team needs in 2027 and beyond.

There are many worthy rookies who could be added on Day 1. And there are many scenarios in which Snead trades up or down to better align with the team's needs and assessment of available prospects. But chill that champagne fans. If one of these three rookes are selected on Day 1, it's time to celebrate.

As always, thanks for reading.

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