Rams GM Snead Poised for Rare 1st-Round Draft Pick

Snead's wheeling and dealing has left the Rams without a 1st-round selection in most recent drafts.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:57pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-perspective scene of a football game or NFL draft, using the Rams' team colors to conceptually represent the team's strategic approach to the draft under GM Les Snead.The Rams' GM Les Snead may break from his typical draft strategy and hold onto a valuable first-round pick this year.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead is known for his aggressive wheeling and dealing, often trading away the team's first-round draft picks. However, with the Rams in contention for the playoffs this season, Snead may be poised to make a rare first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The Rams' success under Snead's leadership has come despite a lack of first-round picks, as he has been able to build a competitive roster through trades and savvy later-round selections. If Snead does hold onto the Rams' first-round pick this year, it could signal a shift in the team's draft strategy and provide them with a high-impact rookie to bolster their playoff push.

The details

Snead has traded away the Rams' first-round pick in five of the last six drafts, using those selections to acquire veteran players and fill immediate needs. However, with the Rams currently in contention for a playoff spot, Snead may be more inclined to hold onto this year's first-round pick and add a top prospect to the roster.

  • The Rams have not had a first-round pick in five of the last six NFL Drafts.
  • The Rams are currently in contention for a playoff spot in the 2026 season.

The players

Les Snead

The general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, known for his aggressive approach to trading draft picks.

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What’s next

The Rams' first-round selection in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft will be closely watched, as it could signal a shift in the team's draft strategy under Snead's leadership.

The takeaway

The Rams' success under Snead's unconventional approach to the draft has been impressive, but holding onto a first-round pick this year could provide them with a high-impact rookie to bolster their playoff push.