The Los Angeles Rams hold the No. 26 pick in the upcoming draft, a spot where they have flexibility due to a lack of clear positional needs. Pro Football Focus suggests a surprise pick for the Rams at this spot could be Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. Despite the Rams' current roster strengths in this area, adding Pearce could enhance their talented defensive front given his impressive production and size.
Pearce has showcased his prowess as an explosive stand-up rusher, recording 107 pressures and 21 sacks over the past two seasons. His physical attributes, including a 6-foot-5, 243-pound frame and impressive speed, make him an enticing prospect at the edge rusher position. While the Rams already have solid options in Verse, Young, and Fiske, Pearce could offer valuable depth and rotational capabilities to bolster the team's defensive lineup.
Although selecting Pearce at No. 26 might raise eyebrows considering other possible needs such as cornerback, inside linebacker, or tight end, his potential impact on the pass rush cannot be overlooked. The Rams could opt to address edge rusher depth later in the draft, but the allure of adding a dynamic player like Pearce early on remains a viable option for the team's defensive strategy.