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 Rams continued their aggressive approach to Day 3 of the NFL draft, trading two sixth-round picks to move to No. 172 overall to draft Ole Miss inside linebacker Chris Paul Jr.