The Los Angeles Rams have significantly enhanced their offense this offseason. While they parted ways with former triple crown winner Cooper Kupp, who joined the Seattle Seahawks, they acquired Davante Adams to pair with Puka Nacua.
This seemingly dynamic offensive setup has led many to anticipate the Rams selecting a defensive player in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. However, Bryce Lazenby’s projection diverges from this expectation, as he has the Rams selecting running back Omarion Hampton from North Carolina.
Los Angeles Rams Go RB in Round 1 Of NFL Draft
Lazenby’s rationale, as stated in the provided text, is that “With the 26th pick, the Rams decide to bolster their offense by adding the best available running back,” and that “Omarion Hampton filled up the stat sheet at North Carolina in 2024, and has the burst and strength to be a star in a Sean McVay offense.”
| Measurable | Measurement | %tile |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5′ 11¾” | 70 |
| Weight | 221 lbs | 73 |
| Wingspan | 74¾” | 56 |
| Arm Length | 30½” | 38 |
| Hand Size | 9⅜” | 59 |
| 10 Yard Split | 1.54s | 68 |
| 40 Yard Dash | 4.46s | 81 |
| Vertical Jump | 38″ | 85 |
| Broad Jump | 130″ | 96 |
| 20 Yard Shuttle | 4.4s | 22 |
| Bench Press | 18 reps | 38 |
According to Dane Brugler of the Athletic, Hampton is the second-best running back in the 2025 draft class and is slated to go anywhere in the late first or early second round.
Hampton presents an NFL-ready frame and demonstrates a keen understanding of blocking schemes. He exhibits quick reading ability, gathers his feet effectively, and accelerates through congested areas, or presses and cuts towards openings. Once he establishes a north-south trajectory, Hampton displays a powerful burst of speed into second-level defenders. However, this aggressive style sometimes compromises his balance, and these forceful collisions could accumulate wear and tear over time.
While Hampton’s creativity is considered average, and he exhibits some tightness in his hips and ankles, he compensates with a bruising running style. He possesses a strong combination of patience, power, and speed. Furthermore, his reliability in passing situations enhances his overall profile, positioning him as a complete player with the potential to start as an NFL rookie.
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This projection raises questions, given the Rams already possess All-Pro running back Kyren Williams, who has accumulated over 2,400 rushing yards and 31 total touchdowns in the past two seasons. Selecting a running back in the first round, considering Williams’ presence and the availability of potentially elite defensive backs, might be perceived by some as a less strategic use of resources for the Rams.