The Los Angeles Rams traded back in the first round, which netted them a second 2026 first-round draft pick. A part of that trade sent their second third-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons, leaving the team with just the 90th overall pick in the draft.
In the second round, they found their Tyler Higbee succession plan in the Oregon tight end Terrance Ferguson
They opted for Michigan edge rusher Josaiah Stewart in the second round, leaving the top needs in the draft unaddressed — cornerback, linebacker, and quarterback.
In the 4th round of the NFL Draft, the Rams traded up with the Indianapolis Colts and selected Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter. The Rams sent the Colts one of their sixth-round picks (190) for the pleasure of moving up 10 spots. The Rams then trade up into the 5th round to select Ohio State defensive tackle Ty Hamilton.
They traded back up into the 5th round to pick 172 to pick Ole Miss linebacker Chris Paul Jr.
Los Angeles Rams Select LB Chris Paul Jr. With The 172nd Pick In The NFL Draft
HT 6′1″ | WT 222 | AGE 22
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler ranked Chris Paul Jr. as the 7th best defensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft class, writing, “Paul won’t be a fit for NFL teams that have strict size thresholds at the position, but his “all-out” play style will find a way to be productive at the next level. He should shine on special teams.”
Khari Paul’s college career culminated in a standout season at Ole Miss, where he was a one-year starter and played the Mike linebacker role in defensive coordinator Pete Golding’s 4-2-5 base scheme. While productive in his first three seasons at Arkansas, Paul achieved his highest level of play after transferring to Ole Miss. In 2024, he led the team in tackles, a performance that was aided by playing behind a defensive line featuring multiple future professional players.
Paul is a highly active and energetic linebacker, demonstrating impressive play speed, sound execution, and tenacious competitiveness. His playing style, characterized by his consistently dirtied jersey, makes him a player who is easy to appreciate.
Despite his smaller stature, Paul does not attempt to play beyond his physical limitations. Instead, he effectively compensates for his lack of size and take-on length by skillfully evading blockers and attacking with full speed into contact.
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