There have been a lot of discussions already this offseason in the NFL that the Los Angeles Rams could look to trade cornerback Jalen Ramsey. The Rams have a messy salary situation and are desperate to clear some cap space. Trading the multi-time All-Pro and Pro Bowler would certainly help them achieve that.
Not only would they clear cap space, but the Rams should also be able to land some great assets in return. While Jalen Ramsey fell off in some regards during the 2022 season, based on raw statistics, it was one of the best seasons of his career.
The Florida State product picked up the first two sacks of his career and set career highs in passes defended, tackles and quarterback hits. He remains a playmaker with four interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
His coverage stats dropped off a little bit as Jalen Ramsey struggled in some of the star-studded matchups he took part in during the 2022 season. Alas, he would still be seen as a huge upgrade in the secondary for some teams.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, one of the teams that have shown interest in Jalen Ramsey is the Detroit Lions. He mentioned the Las Vegas Raiders as another team interested and expects there to be a solid amount of interest.
The Lions surprised a lot of people with their performance during the 2022 season. They just missed out on the playoffs, going 9-8 behind one of the best offenses in the NFL. Defensively, however, they struggled mightily.
Detroit was 28th in points against and last in yardage allowed. They struggled especially against the pass, giving up the 30th most passing yards despite facing only the 15th most attempts. Upgrading the defense at every level is atop the Lions’ to-do list this offseason, making Jalen Ramsey an ideal target.
With cap space to burn, the Lions wouldn’t have too many issues fitting his contract into their books. Prime draft capital is also available from the trade they made with the Rams two years ago for Matthew Stafford.
Detroit has the No. 5 and No. 18 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. They can include the No. 18 pick and No. 56 pick, courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings, in a trade package in exchange for Jalen Ramsey.
Lacking much draft capital because of moves made in previous years, the Rams could jump at such a trade package. They need to replenish the depth of their roster at an affordable price given their salary cap situation. With only two selections in the top-136, adding two premium picks in the first and second rounds would be a nice haul for the Rams.
