The Los Angeles Rams made a savvy move in the third round of the NFL Draft, selecting offensive lineman Keagen Trost out of Missouri. Known for his versatility, Trost played both guard and tackle in college, and Rams head coach Sean McVay has already hinted that the rookie could slot into any of the five positions across the offensive front. For a team that values adaptability, this pick could prove to be a steal.
Pre-draft scouting reports consistently highlighted Trost's flexibility, with many experts projecting him to move inside to guard at the pro level. While some analysts graded him slightly lower than his draft position—Lance Zierlein of NFL.com pegged him as a fourth-rounder, and Dane Brugler of The Athletic had him as a fifth-round prospect—their evaluations paint a picture of a gritty, technically sound blocker with a high football IQ.
Zierlein noted that Trost's improvement from 2024 to 2025 was "obvious on tape," crediting his battles against Missouri's Zion Young and Damon Wilson II for preparing him for the rigors of SEC competition. "He has a broad, proportional build and plays with good body control and firmness through contact," Zierlein wrote, adding that pro-level edge speed could push Trost inside, where his tackle experience and scheme versatility become differentiators. "Position versatility, toughness and a ready-made frame give Trost a chance to eventually become a starter."
Brugler echoed those sentiments, highlighting how Trost exceeded expectations while replacing Armand Membou—the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 draft—at right tackle for the Tigers. "He made noticeable improvements from his 2024 tape, specifically with his handwork and recovery instincts in all phases," Brugler observed. While acknowledging that Trost isn't a high-level athlete, Brugler praised his "grit and body control" as key assets. "Overall, Trost will need some mechanical tweaks for a move inside, but that shouldn't be a major issue—he is a technique-focused blocker with steady feet and physical hands. His ceiling isn't sky high, but the position flex only boosts his usefulness."
For the Rams, who have built their offensive line around versatility and durability, Trost's ability to plug in anywhere along the line is exactly what the doctor ordered. Whether he starts at guard, tackle, or even center down the line, this seventh-year senior with 42 starts across four different schools brings a wealth of experience and a relentless work ethic. As the Rams gear up for the season, Trost could be the kind of under-the-radar pick that pays dividends in the trenches.
