The Rams look like a team that could be in the market at the NFL trade deadline, and the need list stretches beyond just wide receiver. They’ve been linked to pass-catching help, but there are other spots that could use attention too. A move before next week seems unlikely, but these are three names they should be looking at right away.
Joshua Downs is the kind of target that makes sense if the Rams want help now without paying top-shelf price. Brian Thomas Jr. would also be in the conversation, especially because he would give Los Angeles an “X” receiver while Davante Adams is injured.
But Downs wouldn’t cost as much as Thomas, and he could still slide into the offense once Adams returns. The Rams need a dependable WR3 when they’re in 11 personnel, and Tutu Atwell and Konata Mumpfield have shown flashes without offering the kind of consistency the team needs.
Downs brings speed, but the bigger selling point is what he can do after the catch and how well he creates separation with his route-running. With the Colts in a fire-sale situation and Downs requesting a trade, this is a name the Rams should be exploring.
Price: 2027 fourth-round pick
A defensive line addition may not be the flashiest move, but it would make plenty of sense. The Rams have some depth up front, but they’re about to lean on it more heavily with Kobie Turner and Poona Ford out.
Turner is expected back at some point, but Ford is done for the season, and that leaves a gap in the middle of the defensive line. The Rams are going to miss Ford’s presence there.
A’Shawn Robinson, who already knows the organization, would give them the veteran run-stopping body they need. Price: 2028 late-round pick
Edge rusher is another area worth watching, even if wide receiver and defensive line feel like the most obvious priorities. Khalil Mack would fit the kind of profile that can work for a contender, since he’s at the stage of his career where he wants to play for one.
Los Angeles has needed steadier pressure off the edge without Myles Garrett. Garrett is expected back within the next few weeks, but Mack would still fit in the rotation with Josaiah Stewart and could serve as insurance if Garrett’s recovery takes longer than expected.
The Rams can’t keep struggling to generate pressure off the edge. Price: 2028 late-round pick swap
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