標籤: Rams

The 2026 NFL schedule was revealed last Thursday. Now that analysts have had a week to review the 18-week schedule, which includes a record number of nine international games, some believe the Los Angeles Rams got the beat early.

This has become a common talking point as fans have had a chance to digest the team’s schedule revelations on social media. It turns out, this isn’t just another Los Angeles conspiracy theory, this idea has spread among NFL insiders as well.

comes from the latest Sports IllustratedThe Wednesday edition of Albert Breuer’s weekly mailbag which answers questions submitted by readers. One question asked, “Does it feel like some teams are penalized for being popular when the schedule is made?”

Breyer’s response: “Sure, Joey. Look at the Chiefs’ schedule in 2024 and ’25 and the Rams’ schedule in 2026.”

Breyer referenced a column by his SI colleague Connor Orr, who previously wrote that the Rams “screwed up” with their 2026 slate.

Obviously, the league tries to put the NFL’s best teams in primetime slots. The Rams are expected to be a Super Bowl contender, so seven primetime games should be no surprise.

Other obstacles, such as playing in Australia or being the two-time defending Super Bowl champions in the final weeks of the season, are also a result of the team’s popularity and overall expectations, where the league tries to save important divisional matchups for late in the season when it seems at every moment that playoff status is on the line.

Ultimately, if teams like the Rams can overcome a tough challenge, it means they are truly one of the best teams in the NFL. But this won’t be proven until the playoffs arrive. First things first, the Rams have to get there, and it won’t be easy.

RELATED: Los Angeles Rams seen as ‘best team fit’ for Pro Bowl receiver

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The Los Angeles Rams were a popular choice to select a wide receiver or tight end in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Puka Nacua and Davante Adams are both in the final year of their contracts, making it worthwhile for the Rams to consider the future of the position.

While Nacua is a franchise cornerstone and certainly a part of the Rams’ future plans after the 2026 season ends, Adams will turn 34 next season. Five receivers were selected among the 32 picks of the first round, but the Rams did not contribute to those numbers, instead making the surprise selection of quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th pick.

In fact, the Rams didn’t address the receiver room until the sixth round of the draft. Given that this is a team that is ready to win now, it’s a little surprising they didn’t bring in someone who had more potential to make an immediate impact.

However, everyone recognizes the Rams as a potential Super Bowl contender, which makes them an attractive landing spot for the best receivers still available in free agency.

Recently, ESPN’s Matt Bowen named the Rams as the “best team fit” for four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs.

Diggs’ last Pro Bowl season came in 2023, but the Rams aren’t asking him to come in and be a superhero next to Nacua and Adams. Reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford just needs a reliable third weapon that can win his 1-on-1 battles, and even at age 32, Diggs has shown he can get the job done.

Last season, Diggs recorded 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns while serving as the No. 1 target for Drake Mays during the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl run. He won’t get as many opportunities in Los Angeles, but signing with the Rams and accepting a reduced role could give Diggs his best chance yet to win a Super Bowl.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB rankings after Aaron Rodgers rejoins the Steelers

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Now that the rosters are mostly set, we’re starting to get a clearer picture of the differences between Super Bowl contenders and contenders. Claiming the NFL’s reigning MVP, the Los Angeles Rams clearly fall into the former category of teams reaching the postseason again in 2026.

The question is, do the Rams have what it takes to bounce back from falling short in the NFC Conference Championship?

One area that some predicted the Rams would address early in the 2026 NFL Draft was the wide receiver position behind Puka Nakua and Davante Adams. After using the 13th overall pick on quarterback Ty Simpson, the Rams waited until the sixth round to select a wide receiver.

Although the Rams haven’t done much to find an immediate impact pass-catcher, that could change. There are still several potentially game-changing receivers available in free agency.

recently, Sports IllustratedAlbert Breer suggested the Rams could also be a suit for Stefon Diggs, who has yet to find a home for 2026.

Diggs is now 32 years old, but the former All-Pro still recorded 1,017 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 17 starts with the New England Patriots last season. It was the seventh time Diggs recorded 1,000 receiving yards in his 11-year career.

With Nacua and Adams both entering the final year of their contracts, Diggs would be the perfect one-year solution to complement both playmakers. But would he want to be the third wheel on a team that has leaned more toward sets that use three tight ends instead of three receivers?

RELATED: 4 Best Stefon Diggs Landing Spots After the NFL Draft

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If football fans have learned one thing about Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead, it’s that he’s not afraid to make a big move. The latest evidence came on the first night of the 2026 NFL Draft, when the Rams surprised everyone by taking Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the first round.

Simpson was projected as a second-day draft pick, but as they say, it just takes a team to believe in his abilities. This year, it was Ram.

While the decision to draft Simpson was clearly a move for the future, some believe the Rams are eyeing a trade that could solidify their status as a Super Bowl contender this season.

especially, athleticRams insider Nate Atkins suggests fans should “keep an eye on Max Crosby.”

“I’ll also keep an eye on Max Crosby,” Atkins wrote. “They seem to have straightened things out with the Las Vegas Raiders after the trade reversal with the Baltimore Ravens, but the organization’s outlook could change if the Raiders have another tough start to the season.”

Of course, the Las Vegas Raiders had already agreed to trade him once. Can they do it again? It certainly can’t be ruled out, especially if first-year head coach Clint Kubiak is off to a rough start.

While the idea of ​​adding the five-time Pro Bowl sack artist is exciting, Atkins believes any trade discussions are unlikely to accelerate until October. Only then will everyone have a better understanding of their direction.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB Rankings: Where does Matthew Stafford rank?

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

The Los Angeles Rams made two of the boldest moves in the NFL this offseason by trading for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie and taking quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round. It looks like another big move could be coming later this year.

The Athletic’s Nate Atkins reports that the Rams could consider trading for All-Pro edge rusher Max Crosby in October if the Las Vegas Raiders make him available.

READ MORE: 2026 NFL Power Rankings, see where the Rams land

Atkins said the Raiders organization has improved its relationship with Crosby. As a result of the Baltimore Ravens withdrawing from a deal for Crosby, the Raiders appear to be committed to keeping him for the regular season.

If the team doesn’t live up to expectations and isn’t in the mix for a playoff spot, Las Vegas’ stance on trading Crosby could certainly change during the season. While the All-Pro edge rusher won’t be returning a pair of first-round picks, the Raiders could still get premium draft capital for him.

Read more: NFL defense rankings 2026, Rams on top

Los Angeles Rams taking unique approach on trade

One problem Las Vegas will likely face if it makes another Crosby trade is the value teams are offering on the 2027 NFL Draft. This is viewed as a deeper class of prospects with more high-level talent than the 2026 class and potentially one of the best pools of talent in years.

As a result, teams have been more reluctant to trade 2027 draft picks. While this stance is shared by most of the league, that is not the case in Los Angeles.

Atkins wrote that the Rams “want to be” one of the very few teams willing to trade 2027 draft capital. This would give them potential leverage in trade negotiations, especially as teams in rebuilds are placing more emphasis on picks in next year’s class.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for SportsKnow. His work including weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Now that the 2026 NFL Draft has ended, it’s easy to say that the Los Angeles Rams got the biggest blow of the weekend, making Alabama QB Ty Simpson the 13th overall pick in the first round. After all, Matthew Stafford is coming off an MVP season. But he’s also 38, and entering the final year of his contract.

The Rams now have three quarterbacks on the roster, and the team has made a significant investment in each. Stafford is entering the final season of his two-year, $84 million contract, Simpson was selected in the first round, and third-stringer Stetson Bennett was selected in the fourth round in 2023.

One can assume that Rams general manager Les Snead is quite satisfied with his new-look QB room. but it can not.

According to Rams head coach Sean McVay, the team is still not ready to sign Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason.

“I wouldn’t say that.” “I don’t want to say completely shut down, but I will say this. You guys know how much I appreciate Jimmy and what he can really do. I always viewed him as a starting-caliber quarterback. I wouldn’t say he’ll ever shut it down, but being able to do what we did last night, it probably reduces the level of urgency for that position. I would definitely never say that.”

He has spent the last three seasons with the Rams, and the team is clearly comfortable with what he has added in the locker room and on the practice field. There are also rumors that Jimmy G is considering retirement this offseason, yet the Rams would clearly be happy to have him back in LA.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Draft stunners: The biggest surprises from Round 1, including Simpson going to the LA Rams

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

Thursday night in Pittsburgh, Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft finally put a definitive end to months of rumors and speculation. As the world expected, Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza finished first for the Las Vegas Raiders. After that, as many suggested, things got interesting in the next 31 selections.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the biggest surprises from Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Carnell Tate went fourth to the Tennessee Titans

In early mock drafts, Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate was projected to go fifth or sixth. However, as we got closer to Thursday, it started looking more likely that he might fall out of the top 10 as Jordan Tyson moved ahead of him on the draft board.

However, with Arvel Reese still available, the Tennessee Titans decided to give Cam Ward a new weapon and selected Tate. Buckeye should be good at the next level, but it can’t be ignored that he wasn’t even the best receiver at OSU last year. The Titans may have moved up to No. 4 with Tate.

Los Angeles Rams use the 13th pick on Ty Simpson

There have been rumors for several weeks that the Los Angeles Rams were pursuing Alabama’s Ty Simpson. However, the idea of ​​using the 13th overall pick on a quarterback seemed ridiculous. Especially since most projections had him going late in Round 1 or early in Round 2. But instead of getting a player who could make an impact during the season with Super Bowl expectations, L.A. boldly decided to draft Matthew Stafford’s successor.

Some may see this decision as a major overreach that will have no impact on the team over the next year or two. They are right. But many football analysts believe Simpson could be a very good NFL QB if given time to learn more and develop. He will get it in LA and could end up being a huge addition to the team.

Arvel Reese lost to New York Giants at No. 5

Before Thursday night, many NFL Draft evaluators believed Reese was the second pick of the New York Jets. Especially after he canceled his meeting with David Bailey last week.

Although many believed the player could become a superstar in a matter of years, he was passed up by three franchises and fell to the New York Giants at No. 5 overall. On paper, John Harbaugh now has an absurd amount of talent and looks to be in his linebacker corps with Reese and fellow first-round picks Abdul Carter and Kayvon Thibodeaux.

NY Giants trade Caleb Downs for Francis Mauigoa?

Speaking of veterans, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs going to New York with their second pick in Round 1 seemed like a match made in heaven. John Harbaugh has played smart, elite safeties leading his defense on successful teams in the past. He also suggested earlier in the offseason that Downs had Hall of Fame potential.

Yet, when they were on the board again at 10, instead of reuniting him with Reese, they decided to select Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. Building from the line and out is not a bad team-building strategy. But the Giants tried that four years ago with Kayvon Thibodeaux and Evan Neal. And it hasn’t worked out so well.

Instead, the top rival, the Dallas Cowboys, traded up a spot to get Downs, and will now have to face talented defenses twice a year for the next decade.

Kansas City Chiefs trade up to 6 to get Trent McDuffie’s replacement

There were rumors that the Kansas City Chiefs could advance to Round 1 of this year’s event, as they had two selections in the top 30. Many speculated that they could get a player like Jeremiah Love or potentially a top receiver. Instead, they gave up some extra options to get LSU’s Mansur Delaney.

After trading All-Pro Trent McDuffie, the Chiefs clearly felt they needed to find his replacement early in this year’s event and they liked Delaney. However, it seems like they could still get him at No. 9 and waste draft assets out of fear that he might go first.

Ruben Benn Jr. lands with an unexpected Florida team

Reuben Benn Jr.’s draft stock declined after the NFL Combine when draft evaluators discovered that his arms were shorter than productive players at his position. But statistics don’t lie, and he was still a top star for a Miami team that reached the national championship game.

So when the Miami Dolphins were at 12, it made a lot of sense to have the Hurricanes pass rusher in South Beach with the state’s most popular NFL team. But instead, they reached out a bit on Alabama’s Kayden Proctor. However, Ben Jr. would remain in Florida as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him three times later.

EDGE will stay in FL, but not with the team, some thought Thursday.

Dallas Cowboys help Philadelphia Eagles get AJ Brown’s replacement

After weeks of speculation, the Cowboys traded up in Round 1 of the NFL Draft. However, it did not reach the top five. They actually went down three notches. But what made the move a surprise was that they swapped positions with division rivals the Philadelphia Eagles.

It is expected that Philly will trade the star receiver after June 1. That became a guarantee when the Eagles used the 20th pick on USC receiver Makai Lemon. So essentially, the Cowboys helped an opponent get a replacement for the player they were planning to trade and got a nice new weapon for Jalen Hurts. Strange.

The New York Jets got a potential steal at the end of Round 1.

The New York Jets had two picks in Round 1 and played well by selecting David Bailey at No. 2, then landed stud tight end Kenyon Saadiq at No. 16. However, he surprised many when he came back in Round 1 and was the pick of the San Francisco 49ers at No. 30. With the pick, they took receiver Omar Cooper Jr. from Indiana.

There are a lot of draft evaluators who like Cooper Jr. a lot. He had a really good junior year for the Hoosiers, as he often made big plays. Who knows if Mendoza wins the Heisman or goes No. 1 without a receiver? Keeping his positive side in mind, New York could get a steal at pick 30.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Matthew Stafford is coming off the best season of his career, winning his first NFL MVP award while leading the Los Angeles Rams to a record. He is also 38 and has been considering retirement in recent years. Enter, Ty Simpson.

Thursday night, many expected the Rams to select a wide receiver like Jordan Tyson or Makai Lemon in the first round with the 13th overall selection. Tyson went to the Saints at No. 8. Lemon was still available. Other projections included the Rams making a secret selection with Oregon tight end Kenyon Saadiq, who set an NFL Scouting Combine record for a tight end with a 4.39-second 40-yard dash. No. All those mock drafts were wrong.

Instead, Rams general manager Les Snead shocked everyone by selecting Alabama’s QB, Simpson, who is now officially Stafford’s successor in L.A. Obviously, this is a move that head coach and QB guru Sean McVay has signed off on, but it’s still a decision that no one expected at the 13-year-old.

Still, last offseason, there was even a notion that the Rams might trade Stafford, a former Super Bowl LVI champion, before finding common ground and renegotiating his contract. Now re-entering the final year of his contract, Simpson’s selection makes one wonder if this could be Stafford’s final season in Los Angeles and possibly the NFL.

According to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, the Rams informed Stafford they will select Simpson with the 13th overall pick today. However, he informed her that the selection would be held “whenever Stafford decides to move forward.”

Meanwhile, it’s a tough development for former Georgia QB Stetson Bennett, who the Rams made with the 128th overall selection in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Certainly, he’s ready for QB3 duties behind Stafford and Simpson. Also, all this smoke about the Rams hoping Jimmy Garoppolo will have a change of heart and re-sign? Beautifully played by Los Angeles.

RELATED: 4 James Connor trade landing spots after Cardinals draft Jeremiah Love

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George Pickens’ future in Dallas is no longer a sure thing. After quieting his doubters and improving his reputation with a breakout season for the Cowboys in 2025, owner and general manager Jerry Jones insisted for weeks that locking up the receiver to a long-term deal was inevitable. Well, that can’t happen now.

On Wednesday, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter claimed in an episode Rise That “They’re nowhere with George Pickens at this point. Nowhere. They’re not really talking about an extension.” Later in the day, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones told Dallas media, “There will be no negotiations on a long-term deal,” and the pass catcher will play on his $27.3 million franchise tag next season.

This has led to much speculation that the team may consider moving Pickens during the NFL Draft, specifically in Round 1. If he makes that bold move, let’s take a look at five teams that could acquire the player who posted 93 catches, 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2025.

Arizona Cardinals

There’s a lot of talk that Dallas would prefer to move up to No. 3 and select David Bailey or Arvel Reese — or whoever the New York Jets don’t take at No. 2. Either could be a long-term solution to fill the gap left in the pass rush after trading Micah Parsons last year.

However, some question whether the ‘Guys, giving up their picks at Nos. 12 and 20, will be tempting to the Arizona Cardinals. But if they offer Pickens and the No. 20 pick as well as the third-day pick, it could be enough. While the Cards have a messy QB situation, the combo of Pickens and Marvin Harrison Jr. will be good weapons for their signal-caller in 2026 and beyond.

New York Jets

The Cowboys could also try to move up to No. 2 as rumors have been swirling for weeks that the Jets are willing to trade down.

New York coach Aaron Glenn is feeling a lot of pressure to perform better in 2026 or he may be fired. They have high expectations for veteran QB Geno Smith. So getting another big weapon like Pickens could potentially lead to a drastic change in the offense next season. Dallas could benefit from Glenn’s frustration and get whoever they want at No. 2.

los angeles chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to take another big step forward in Year 2 under head coach Jim Harbaugh. They lack a game-breaker receiver in 2025. If Pickens were acquired he could help elevate them into a true Super Bowl contender. Due to the impact Pickens can have on offensive coordinator Mike McDaniels’ system, LA may be willing to drop their pick at 22 for the receiver and give him an extension to serve as Justin Herbert’s WR1 for years to come.

Los Angeles Rams

At the beginning of the offseason, the Los Angeles Rams showed they were fully prepared to finish their Super Bowl story when they gave up the No. 29 pick in Round 1 to the Kansas City Chiefs for All-Pro Trent McDuffie. Reports linked him to a possible trade for Philadelphia Eagles star AJ Brown last month. However, they backed out of a deal.

Would LA be willing to give up their pick at 13 in Round 1 for Pickens? Probably not. However, a deal that sends pick No. 13 and Davante Adams to Dallas for Pickens, pick 20, and a third-rounder could be possible. The Cowboys will have picks 12 and 13 in Round 1, as well as a good replacement for Pickens. While the Rams make a lethal WR duo for reigning MVP Matthew Stafford next season.

new England Patriots

Another team that can’t be ruled out in the potential George Pickens trade market is the New England Patriots. They desperately need a young receiver if they hope to have a real chance to get back to the Super Bowl next season.

They are among the teams interested in AJ Brown. However, it may cost two first-round picks. Giving up their pick at No. 31 on Thursday night, plus a third-rounder, could be enough to get them the WR1 Drake Mays wants.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The 2026 NFL Draft begins with first-round action on Thursday night, where the Los Angeles Rams have the 13th overall pick. Rams general manager Les Snead hasn’t selected this high since 2016, when he made a blockbuster move at No. 1 for Jared Goff.

Despite the presence of Puka Nakua and Davante Adams, many Rams mocks had them selecting a wide receiver who led the NFL in receiving yards and touchdowns in 2025. Still, Adams is 33 years old and entering the final year of his contract.

Adding another pass-catcher could certainly make a play at No. 13, but the Rams are a wild card; They’re not even close to forcing a first down on a receiver. In other words, he could deliver one of the biggest surprises of the draft.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s NFL insider Dan Graziano suggests that “some are also watching to see if they make a big move for Love, which would be a very exciting cherry on top of their offensive sundae.”

A trade for Love, which may require launching up to the third pick via a trade with the Arizona Cardinals (who are open for business), would require a major investment from Los Angeles. But we’re talking about Les Snead here. The Rams aren’t afraid to trade a collection of draft picks for a player they want, like Jalen Ramsey or even Trent McDuffie.

This time, they’re doing it for a prospect, but someone who many consider to be the best player in the 2026 NFL Draft class. However, the Rams already have a Pro Bowl running back in Kyren Williams, who is still only 25 years old? Will they really do everything possible to land another Notre Dame running back? It will definitely be a surprise, but also fun.

RELATED: Final 2026 NFL mock draft: Projecting Round 1 with trades

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A notable NFL mock draft suggests the Los Angeles Rams will make one of the biggest trades of the 2026 event for a player considered the best at his position.

After falling just short of reaching the Super Bowl earlier this year, the Rams’ brain trust is motivated to finish the story in 2026. And why not? They will bring back most of the same roster, including reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford.

However, they made some notable changes the following season to overcome division rivals and defending league champions, the Seattle Seahawks. They made a blockbuster trade for Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro Trent McDuffie. Then added his teammate Jaylen Watson in free agency. His aggressiveness has earned him the praise of rival officials.

Now, they will look for more players who can contribute in this week’s NFL Draft. They have one less selection in the first round after giving up their selection at 29th overall in the McDuffie trade. However, they still have the 13th overall pick. At that spot, they should be able to get a very good player. But there are rumors that they may not be enough.

Could the Los Angeles Rams trade up in the draft for Cornell Tate?

Maybe that’s why The Athletic’s Rams reporter Nate Atkins predicted a bold move in the outlet’s latest NFL mock draft that would have them give up the Nos. 13 and 61 picks and a 2027 fifth-rounder this week.

Atkins wrote, “The Rams are often trying to reach the top 10, but often have to go very far to achieve it.” “This year is different. They move from No. 13 to No. 6 to pursue potential receiver run backs. Carnell Tate is an option in this draft who projects as a future No. 1 pick without injury concerns. And that matters if the Rams are unsure about paying Puka Nakua.”

Atkins mentions that if Makai Lemon were still available at pick 13, he believes the Rams would remain in that slot. But receivers can blow up from that board to the back end of the top 10. This trade would bring to L.A. the player draft evaluators consider the most NFL-ready receiver at the moment.

Nacua is entering the final year of his rookie contract. After two Pro Bowl appearances in three seasons, re-signing him would seem like a no-brainer. However, the ongoing civil lawsuit and erratic behavior off the field over the past six months has raised some doubts over whether he can be invested in in the long term. The 24-year-old recently completed treatment at a holistic care and rehabilitation facility to deal with his recent internal troubles.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Los Angeles Rams have been busy since the NFL offseason began last month, and executives from rival teams have been fans of how they’ve adapted to their latest creation for a Super Bowl run.

After falling a bit short of reaching the Big Game earlier this year, the LA Rams brain trust is motivated to finish the story in 2026. And why not? They will bring back most of last year’s roster, including reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford.

However, they must improve if they want to overcome division rivals and defending league champions, the Seattle Seahawks. They did so immediately when they made a blockbuster trade for Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro Trent McDuffie. He also added teammate Jaylen Watson in free agency. His aggressiveness has earned the praise of a rival executive.

“It doesn’t make any difference to me,” the executive said. “If you still think you’re in the window and you have Matt Stafford coming back, you’ve got to do everything you can to try to win it one more time. They still have a first-round pick.”

Exec praises visionary thinking of Los Angeles Rams contract for Trent McDuffie

Additionally, pairing McDuffie with Watson in L.A. especially after working well together in Kansas City drew praise from another NFL decision-maker.

“Corner is a position where even the top guys are hard to be consistent year after year, but I like how aggressive they were,” the executive said. “Their biggest need by far was to have more size in the secondary, to be more competitive. You’re pairing McDuffie with Watson so they can come together, communicate well together, build rapport.”

While some NFL evaluators questioned the LA Rams’ decision to make McDuffie the highest-paid corner in the league ($31 million annual average), another executive felt the price tag was a smart piece of forward thinking and not a bad overpay.

“I know they gave McDuffie a lot of money. But teams that accept where the cap is going and can adjust the percentages rather than have sticker shock are ahead of the game,” that executive said. “They realize that $30 million is going to be (more palatable) because other people will get paid.”

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Los Angeles Rams are looking for a potential quarterback who can seamlessly take over after Matthew Stafford walks off into the sunset. While he is now 38 years old, he is also coming off his first MVP season. He doesn’t appear ready to slow down or retire any time soon, even though he is one of the oldest players in the NFL.

Still, Sean McVay understands the importance of a strong depth chart at the QB position. The Rams will face a major absence if Stafford misses time, and Jimmy Garoppolo, his backup through 2024, is a free agent.

On Sunday, Coach McVay addressed his QB room, which currently only consists of Stafford and 2023 fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett. When asked what the plans were, McVay admitted that his past relationship with free agent QB Kirk Cousins ​​is legitimate, and that he would “love” to reunite with him in L.A. Nevertheless, McVay would also be open to re-signing Garoppolo.

“People make some connections with Kirk.” “If it doesn’t work out with Jimmy, it’s definitely something — Kirk has been as influential in helping me get to L.A. in the first place as anyone. I know he has some other options and some other boyfriends, but Jimmy and Kirk are guys I would love to have back with us.”

McVay and Cousins ​​overlapped for five seasons with the Commanders from 2012 to 2016, including Cousins’ first Pro Bowl season in 2015. Still, he’s now looking for another place to play, and the Rams need a high-level backup who can get the job done. Ultimately, Rams and Cousins ​​could be a perfect fit, especially considering he will have very little time to learn when it comes to mastering an offense for which he already knows most of the terminology.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

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The Los Angeles Rams love the team they’ve built. This helped them win 12 games and reach the NFC Conference Championship. But as general manager Les Snead knows, there’s clearly more work to be done.

Yet, after only a four-point loss to the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Rams also feel like they are close to the ultimate goal again. They also have a head coach and starting quarterback who already know what it takes to win a Super Bowl.

As the Rams continue to build out their quarterback room, which now only includes Matthew Stafford and Stetson Bennett, they will have to consider whether they want more experience or upside at the position. As a team that feels like they are favorites, the Rams probably have something else to prove.

recently, athleticNate Atkins reported that the Rams are “interested in bringing back Jimmy Garoppolo.” However, Atkins says “the market for them is fluid.”

As expected, others are expected to be interested in the two-time Super Bowl winner. Still, the Rams may have the upper hand on the 34-year-old, given that he’s spent the last two seasons mastering Sean McVay’s system in Los Angeles.

However, perhaps Garoppolo is tired of sitting on the bench. He has started only one game the past two years, and barring injury, he may not get those opportunities with the Rams. Perhaps better playing opportunities exist in Arizona, Pittsburgh, or other destinations where the quarterback position is weak. After Stafford’s MVP campaign, this clearly isn’t Los Angeles.

RELATED: 2026 NFL mock draft after the first wave of free agency

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A new rumor suggests it wasn’t the Philadelphia Eagles’ asking price for AJ Brown that prompted the Los Angeles Rams to trade for the star receiver.

After falling just short of reaching the Super Bowl in January, the LA Rams are primed to reach the big game next season. When he gave up first-, fifth- and sixth-round picks in next month’s NFL Draft for All-Pro Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie, he showed he wasn’t playing.

Yet he wasn’t the only proven star the front office was targeting in a trade. Various reports claimed that they were one of two teams showing strong interest in trading three-time Pro Bowler AJ Brown. However, they decide to retreat from their goal.

Most assumed that the asking price was the issue. The Eagles are reportedly looking for at least a first and second rounder at pass catcher. However, concerns about Brown’s health may actually be the real reason.

Are teams concerned about AJ Brown’s long-term sustainability?

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the LA Rams walked away from a potential deal because they were “scared” by what they saw in “preliminary medical research” conducted on the seven-year veteran.

Florio claimed in a new report, “They decided it was too much of an investment for a player of this age. Normal wear and tear. We’re not going to do that. But they were doing all this because if they get AJ Brown, they’ll trade Davante Adams.”

There is a belief around the league that if the Eagles don’t get what they are looking for, they could choose to keep Brown around for another season. However, there are others who feel that Philadelphia is putting themselves in a bad financial position by holding out on him, and waiting until after June 1 to make a trade.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The rumors of a deal for AJ Brown from the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams got even tougher after the deal that sent Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos.

One of the biggest stories in the NFL over the past few weeks has been on the future of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown. The three-time Pro Bowler didn’t hide his disappointment with the way he was used during the 2025 season. This has led to much speculation that the Eagles could move him this offseason.

While both the Rams and Patriots are reportedly the two top contenders for the 28-year-old, rumors suggest the current asking price is a significant hurdle in securing a deal. Well, the new trade sending Jaylen Waddle to Denver would strengthen Philadelphia’s case for demanding at least a first- and second-round pick in a trade for the Browns.

On Tuesday, the Broncos agreed to send a first (No. 30), third- and fourth-round pick for Waddle and a fourth-rounder in next month’s NFL Draft.

Why is the Jaylen Waddle trade bad for the Patriots and Rams?

The trade return for Miami is bad news for the Patriots, Rams and any other team interested in trading for the Browns. The expectation is that patience and the Eagles’ ongoing salary cap issues may lead to general manager Howie Roseman lowering his current price for the star receiver. That’s no longer a possibility after what the Dolphins got for Waddle.

The 27-year-old is a good pass catcher and has the talent to become a true WR1. However, he benefited greatly from being on the other side of the field from future Hall of Famer Tyreek Hill. Still, he has only had three seasons with 1,000 or more receiving yards in five years, and he has never earned Pro Bowl honors.

Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler who has had fewer than 1,000 yards receiving in only one of his seven NFL seasons. If Waddle can get a first, third and fourth rounder, Brown’s value should be much higher as he has a far better resume and is only a year older. If the Patriots or Rams want Brown, it would cost at least a first- and second-round draft pick.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Even though the Philadelphia Eagles continue to support him, AJ Brown trade rumors won’t go away. Recently, they also included the Los Angeles Rams, who were reportedly interested in acquiring the three-time Pro Bowl receiver.

Still, if the Rams were to add Brown to a mix that already includes Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, would there be enough targets to go around in LA? Obviously, Ram also considered this.

According to , the Rams considered trading Adams if they had traded for the Browns.

Given that Brown is set to make $29 million in 2026, and Adams is set to make $24 million, considering Nacua is certainly on track to become the NFL’s highest-paid receiver, it’s no surprise that they might not want to make such a significant financial commitment to the receiver position. Also, Adams is 33 years old, compared to Brown, who is only 28 years old.

While the Rams were considering a trade for Brown, that no longer appears to be the case, as they were likely hoping to get a deal done by today.

It remains to be seen if the Eagles will still try to trade Brown. Still, they may have scared off teams by setting too high a price for a six-time 1,000-yard receiver.

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Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

The Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs have made a blockbuster trade involving cornerback Trent McDuffie. The Rams are sending the 29th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a 2026 fifth-round pick, a 2026 sixth-round pick and a 2027 third-round pick for McDuffie. This is the major move that makes Los Angeles secondary.

Below, we’ll break down the winners and losers of the McDuffie trade between the Chiefs and Rams!

Winner: Los Angeles Rams

The Rams entered the 2026 NFL offseason needing help in the secondary, particularly at cornerback. McDuffie is very good in coverage and run defense, giving Los Angeles a much-needed lockdown defender on the outside. With only one year remaining on his contract, McDuffie plans to sign a long-term extension with the Rams. Los Angeles gave up a large number of draft picks, but the All-Pro cornerback is worth the price.

Loser: Kansas City Chiefs Secondary

Kansas City’s secondary is the biggest loser in this trade. By transferring McDuffie, the Chiefs have kept Christian Fulton and Noah Williams as their starting cornerbacks, which may not be the case moving forward in the 2026-27 NFL season. The Chiefs are projected to make at least one move for a cornerback during the offseason, but it will be very difficult to replace McDuffie’s production on the field.

Winner: Kansas City Front Office

Kansas City’s front office did a great job by trading McDuffie to Los Angeles. The Chiefs secondary has lagged, but the 29th pick and three other picks in the 2026 NFL Draft are very strong. Additionally, the 25-year-old cornerback was set to become a free agent after the upcoming season. The move allows the Chiefs to recover value for McDuffie, add cap flexibility and find a higher-ranked prospect in the NFL Draft.

Loser: Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks are the Super Bowl champions, but that has a major impact on their chances of repeating. The Seahawks’ biggest needs heading into the 2026 NFL offseason are running backs and cornerbacks. With Rick Woolen and Josh Jobe becoming free agents, Seattle has a need at the cornerback position. Instead of acquiring McDuffie, the organization saw its biggest rival complete a deal.

Winner: Los Angeles defensive coordinator Chris Shula

Los Angeles defensive coordinator Chris Shula is a big winner. After a strong 2025-26 NFL season, Shula’s secondary struggled mightily. This affected the calling of the game on defense, as the secondary was unreliable. Now, Shula can be more confident with his secondary and prepare himself for a strong defense in 2026-27. If all goes well, he may soon get an NFL head coaching job.

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky