Apr 29, 2025 | NFL, Los Angeles, Sports, Valleys

Rams Honor First Responders, Add Firepower in 2025 NFL Draft

The Los Angeles Rams brought more than just draft picks to the table this year—they brought appreciation, celebration, and a show of unity.

Sean McVay, Rams

By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer

The Los Angeles Rams brought more than just draft picks to the table this year—they brought appreciation, celebration, and a show of unity.

At a special draft-day event held at the Los Angeles Fire Department Air Operations facility in Van Nuys, the Rams honored the city’s first responders. Surrounded by the families of firefighters, city officials, team mascot Rampage, and Rams cheerleaders, the franchise took time to recognize the ongoing service and sacrifice of LAFD personnel.

Draft Day Moves

While honoring the city’s heroes, the Rams were also busy shaping the team’s future.

In a move that signaled their strategic approach, the Rams traded their first-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons and moved down to select Terrance Ferguson, a 6-foot-5 tight end from Oregon, with the 46th overall pick in the second round.

Analysis: Ferguson brings athleticism and pass-catching potential to the tight end group. Though he has room to grow as a blocker and in physical matchups, his skill set fits well with the Rams’ pass-heavy offense. “He’s not going to be asked to do a lot of blocking early on,” one scout noted.

Defense Gets a Boost

In the third round (No. 90 overall), the Rams selected Josaiah Stewart, an EDGE rusher from Michigan. Known for his relentless motor and flexibility despite being slightly undersized, Stewart offers strong value as a rotational pass rusher.

Instant grade: B-plus. He’ll add depth and energy to the Rams’ defensive line, especially on passing downs.

Offensive Firepower from the SEC

With the 117th pick in the fourth round (via Indianapolis), the Rams turned to the Southeastern Conference, drafting Jarquez Hunter, a running back out of Auburn. Hunter rushed for more than 1,200 yards last season, averaging 6.4 yards per carry with eight touchdowns.

“I think when you really look at it—and Les being an Auburn alum—you see how this guy plays the game at a high level in an incredibly competitive conference,” said Rams head coach Sean McVay. “He’s got the ability to go through you or run away from you.”

Hunter’s SEC pedigree and big-game performances, including a 278-yard outing against Kentucky, made him an attractive pick.

Filling Out the Roster

The Rams continued to look for value in later rounds:

5th Round, No. 172 overall (compensatory pick via Seattle and Minnesota): Pooh Paul, linebacker, Ole Miss. Paul led his team with 88 tackles, including 11 for loss, and added four pass breakups. He opted out of the Gator Bowl to prepare for the draft.
7th Round: Konata Mumpfield, wide receiver, Pittsburgh. Mumpfield adds depth to the Rams’ receiving corps and could find a role on special teams or as a developmental slot option.

A Consistent Draft Philosophy

Once again, the Rams leaned on their proven ability to find late-round talent. Past picks like Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Cooper Kupp prove the team’s knack for unearthing future stars beyond the first round.