Paul Jr. finished as Pro Football Focus’ top-rated linebacker in the SEC for the 2024 season, earning an overall defensive grade of 87.2 (No. 5 in the FBS). He also ranked in the SEC’s top five in pass rush, tackling, coverage, pressures, and run defense, showing off his versatility and dominance across the board.

Near the end of the fifth round, the Rams finally got their linebacker, trading up to select Ole Miss’ Chris Paul Jr. at No. 172 overall. The Rams packaged Nos. 201 and 202 to trade up with the Vikings, ensuring they got their guy in Paul.

The Los Angeles Rams may have gotten a steal on Day 3 when they selected Chris Paul Jr., a linebacker from Ole Miss. They traded up 29 spots to get him, making an aggressive move for the talented linebacker in the fifth round.