Rams Honoring First Responders During Unique 2025 Draft

The Los Angeles Rams have found sustained NFL success despite rarely using first-round draft picks, instead excelling at identifying players who fit their system in later rounds, resulting in multiple starters from Days 2 and 3 of recent drafts. The Rams' approach was notably on display in the 2025 NFL Draft, when they traded away their first-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons, who paid a steep price—including a future first-round pick—to move up and select edge rusher James Pearce Jr. Experts have widely criticized Atlanta's trade as risky and potentially poor value, with concerns the Falcons gave up too much for a non-quarterback. However, Atlanta intentionally modeled its draft strategy on the Rams' blueprint, aiming to rapidly rebuild its defense with multiple early picks. This strategic exchange underscores both teams’ differing philosophies: the Rams' focus on value and fit, and the Falcons’ aggressive pursuit of immediate defensive upgrades. Additionally, the Rams made headlines for holding their draft war room at a Los Angeles Fire Department Air Ops facility to honor first responders following recent wildfires, reflecting their community engagement alongside their football operations.