We’re still months away from the 2025 NFL Draft, and so far, the Los Angeles Rams still have their first-round pick. Just a few months ago, the Rams selected pass rusher Jared Verse out of Florida State, who seems poised to be their next superstar on defense. After spending their first first-round pick in almost a decade on defense, this new mock draft has them flipping to select a talented player on offense.
In his latest mock draft, The 33rd Team’s Ian Valentino mocked Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka to Los Angeles.
“Eventually, the Los Angeles Rams will come to terms with Cooper Kupp’s continued regression. If it’s not already clear he’s on the downside of his career, the Rams won’t sit idly and wait for injuries to continue piling up.
Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka isn’t a perfect replacement, but he’s about as good as the Rams could ask for as someone who thrives after the catch.”
Cooper Kupp has battled injuries the last two seasons and is on the wrong side of 30. With almost a $30M cap hit over the next three seasons, it feels like 2025 will be Kupp’s last season with the Rams. It makes sense that the team should look to find his long-term replacement and running mate to pair with Puka Nacua.
The Rams need a true separator at wide receiver to complement Nacua’s ability after the catch. This was why Rome Odunze was such a popular candidate ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. In the 2025 NFL Draft, players like Egbuka, as well as Arizona’s Teitaroa McMillan make plenty of sense for the Rams to replace Kupp in the future.