As the NFL Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Rams have made their intentions clear: special teams are back in vogue. The offseason hiring of coordinator Bubba Ventrone and the signings of ace Grant Stuard and long snapper Joe Cardona signal a renewed commitment to the game's third phase. This focus is perfectly aligned with their current draft capital, holding four picks in the final two rounds—prime territory for finding hidden gems who can dominate on kick and punt coverage.

Late-round selections are never guaranteed a roster spot, but for a player with elite special teams prowess, it's the ultimate foot in the door. It provides a developmental path, allowing a prospect to contribute immediately on coverage units while refining their offensive or defensive skills. For a Rams team looking to bolster its return game, this draft strategy makes perfect sense.

So, which prospects could be wearing the horns and making an instant impact? Let's look at a couple of names that should be on the radar when the Rams are on the clock late on Day 3.

First up is Iowa's Kaden Wetjen, a player who might be the most electric return specialist in this class. While his profile as a sixth-year, 24-year-old slot receiver may give some teams pause, you don't draft Wetjen for his offensive upside. You draft him for game-breaking speed in the return game. Last season, he averaged a staggering 26.8 yards per punt return and has six career return touchdowns. For a Rams team seeking an upgrade over Xavier Smith, Wetjen could be the immediate answer, offering a rare blend of vision and explosiveness that changes field position in a heartbeat.

Another intriguing name is Keon Styles, the older brother of top linebacker prospect Sonny Styles. While details on his specific skill set are less defined here, his familial connection to a high-level athlete and his likely availability in the late rounds fit the Rams' mold. Players with his athletic pedigree often thrive on special teams, using that platform to develop into broader roles. He represents the type of high-motor, developmental player the Rams could target to fortify their coverage units under Ventrone's guidance.

For Rams fans and anyone who appreciates the grind of special teams, next week's draft holds a unique intrigue. It's not just about finding the next star quarterback; it's about building a complete team, one game-changing tackle or one electrifying return at a time. The foundation for that is often laid with picks just like these.