The Los Angeles Rams don't have much to complain about in 2025.
The team is sitting at 9-2 and in first place in the tough NFC West. The offense has been humming along as usual, as the team is top 10 in both points and yards per game. The defense has also been stellar, as the unit is first in opponent points per game and ninth in opponent yards per game.
However, even though the Rams will be playing in the postseason, they will still likely have the luxury of owning a pick near the top of the first round. That's due to a trade made with the Atlanta Falcons during the 2025 draft.
The Falcons have not had as much success as the Rams, so that pick is even more valuable now. If the season ended today, the Rams would have the No. 11 pick in the draft.
With a high pick and not many needs, could the team decide to make a bold move and draft the passer of the future? Jaime Eisner of The Draft Network recently published an updated mock draft, and he has the Rams selecting USC quarterback Jayden Maiava.
Regarding the Maiava pick, Eisner offered the following:
I’m incredibly intrigued by Jayden Maiava. He makes throws in a game that other college QBs simply don’t—and he does it effortlessly. On top of that, the Lincoln Riley quarterback lineage is a strong track record to bet on. I believe he deserves first-round consideration.
As Eisner mentioned, Maiava effortlessly makes NFL-level throws on a weekly basis. The quarterback also plays in Lincoln Riley's system, which has produced several quality NFL passers.
This pick doesn't mean Matthew Stafford has been playing poorly- in fact, Stafford is having a great season. The veteran has thrown for 2,830 yards this season with 30 touchdowns and two interceptions.
However, Stafford isn't getting any younger, and there doesn't appear to be an heir apparent on the roster. The Rams likely won't be picking high in drafts very often, so they may decide to take advantage this year and snag Maiava.
Maiava has thrown for 3,174 yards with 21 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The quarterback has also made plays with his legs, with 140 rushing yards and six scores.
Maiava is already playing in Los Angeles, so that would be an intriguing storyline. There also wouldn't be immediate pressure, unless Stafford decides to retire this offseason.