Keagan Trost could be the steal of the Rams' 2026 draft class
Keagan Trost could be the steal of the Rams' 2026 draft class
Brock Vierra, Rams WireMon, May 11, 2026 at 6:45 PM UTC
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Keagan Trost could be the steal of the Rams' 2026 draft class
By selecting Keagen Trost in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams added a player for now and for the future. Trost, who can play every position along the offensive line, serves as an immediate backup, replacing Warren McClendon Jr.'s old role as a swing tackle now that McClendon is a projected starter.
On top of that, Trost is able to play inside and for a team that saw both Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson miss multiple games last season, Trost allows the Rams to function, even if they suffer multiple injuries. Trost has a legacy to uphold. The Rams have been the kings of the third round since 2023, selecting Kobie Turner, Byron Young, Kam Kinchens, Blake Corum, and Josaiah Stewart.
Trost represents the future. At some point, the Rams are going to have to address their looming free agency class. That includes Matthew Stafford, the entire 2023 draft class, Davante Adams, and more. Four out of the five starting offensive linemen for the Rams are also on that list.
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There's no chance the Rams will be able to retain all four players without making sacrifices to other parts of the roster. The Rams do not have a track record of signing offensive linemen to long-term extensions, mostly handing out deals to tackles. But Trost's selection will pay off, and here's why.
Regardless of who Trost replaces, the Rams are adding one of college football's best offensive linemen in pass protection, allowing just one sack and six total pressures last season. The Rams are one of the most pass-happy teams in the NFL. Trost has the skill and support to be great but the reason why this pick is such a gem is his age. He played seven years of college football, being one of the last members of the COVID era. As a result, he's 25 years old. The Rams are getting Trost in the prime of his career for four years on a prorated deal.
This type of value allows for seamless transitions while leaving enough resources on the table to address the rest of the line. Trost will be surrounded by top talent, will receive premier coaching from one of the best offensive line developers in the NFL, Ryan Wendell, and he has the space to grow, with the ability to make an impact immediately. He's a fantastic addition who has a tremendously high floor.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams OT Keagen Trost could be LA's steal of 2026 draft class
Source: “AOL Breaking”