Rams Linked to Long-Term Davante Adams Replacement

USC standout Makai Lemon could be the Rams' pick to eventually succeed the aging star receiver.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly considering drafting USC wide receiver Makai Lemon as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Davante Adams. Adams, 33, may only have a season or two left with the Rams, and the team is looking to the future by potentially selecting the talented Lemon in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The Rams have one of the league's most potent offenses, led by star receiver Puka Nacua. Adding another young, elite receiving threat like Lemon could give them a dynamic duo to build around for years to come, even as the 33-year-old Adams nears the end of his career.

The details

According to reports, the Rams view Lemon as an ideal fit to eventually succeed Adams, who is entering the twilight of his career. Pairing Lemon with the 23-year-old Nacua would give the Rams two young, talented receivers to build their offense around for the long term.

  • Davante Adams is currently 33 years old.
  • The 2025 NFL Draft is when the Rams could potentially select Makai Lemon.

The players

Davante Adams

A 33-year-old wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams who is nearing the end of his career.

Puka Nacua

A 23-year-old wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams who is considered one of the better receivers in the NFL.

Makai Lemon

A standout wide receiver prospect from the University of Southern California who the Rams are reportedly considering drafting in 2025 as a long-term replacement for Davante Adams.

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What they’re saying

“This is the best landing spot for Lemon, and where we believe he will land at the moment. Davante Adams is 33 years old, and if he does return to Los Angeles this season, it will more than likely be his final year with the team.”

— Mark Morales-Smith, Sports Illustrated writer (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Rams will continue to evaluate Makai Lemon's development at USC ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, where they could potentially select him as a long-term replacement for the aging Davante Adams.

The takeaway

The Rams are proactively planning for the future by eyeing Makai Lemon as a potential successor to veteran receiver Davante Adams. Pairing Lemon with the young star Puka Nacua could give the Rams one of the NFL's most dynamic receiving corps for years to come.