The Los Angeles Rams did not select a quarterback with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. In reality, the Rams held the No. 19 overall selection, which they used to draft Florida State defensive end Jared Verse. The franchise has not selected a quarterback in the first round since choosing Jared Goff with the first overall pick in 2016.
The Rams’ 2024 First-Round Strategy
Rather than targeting a quarterback, the Los Angeles Rams focused on bolstering their defensive front. According to the official 2024 NFL Draft results, the team utilized the 19th pick to select Jared Verse.
General Manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay prioritized defensive depth following the retirement of long-time defensive tackle Aaron Donald. Verse, a standout pass rusher from Florida State, was the first defensive player selected by the Rams in the first round since 2017.
Why the Rams Did Not Draft a Quarterback
The Rams’ roster construction reflects a commitment to veteran leadership at the quarterback position. Matthew Stafford, who led the team to a victory in Super Bowl LVI, remains the starter.
According to team personnel reports, the organization’s draft strategy centered on addressing immediate gaps in the defensive line and secondary. While teams like the Atlanta Falcons (who held the No. 8 pick) and the Minnesota Vikings (who held the No. 11 pick) were active in the quarterback market, the Rams operated with a different set of priorities. The team’s approach emphasizes surrounding Stafford with young, cost-controlled talent on rookie contracts, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Comparison of Draft Positions
The confusion regarding the Rams’ draft position highlights the difference between the actual 2024 draft order and speculative mock drafts.
| Team | Draft Pick | Player Selected | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Raiders | 13 | Brock Bowers | Tight End |
| Los Angeles Rams | 19 | Jared Verse | Defensive End |
The 13th overall pick in the 2024 draft belonged to the Las Vegas Raiders, who selected tight end Brock Bowers from the University of Georgia. The Rams, meanwhile, traded out of their original draft slots in previous years to acquire veteran talent, but in 2024, they retained their first-round pick to secure Verse.
Looking Ahead for the Los Angeles Rams
The Rams’ decision to pass on a quarterback in the first round signals a continued "win-now" window for the franchise. With Stafford entering the latter stages of his career, the team has opted to invest in high-upside defensive prospects to maintain competitiveness in the NFC West. The performance of rookies like Verse will be critical in determining whether the team can sustain its defensive efficiency throughout the upcoming season.