Les Snead and the Los Angeles Rams have adopted a distinctive strategy in their recent drafts, focusing on defensive linemen who have transitioned from smaller schools to more prominent programs. This trend reflects their commitment to selecting players who have a genuine passion for the game rather than merely seeking the prestige of a Power 5 school. Candidates like Josaiah Stewart, Jared Verse, and Braden Fiske exemplify this philosophy, demonstrating substantial performance improvements as they progressed through their college careers.

The Rams believe that if a player can excel at a lesser level and maintain that success at a Power 5 institution, they are poised to succeed in the NFL. This approach has yielded impressive results, with several recent draft picks achieving remarkable early career statistics. The hope is that Josaiah Stewart will continue this tradition of success.