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USA Today via Reuters
Credits: USA Today
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USA Today via Reuters
Credits: USA Today
There’s something about the NFL offseason that feels like a high-stakes poker game. Behind closed doors, GMs and coaches are bluffing, negotiating, and making moves that could define their team’s future. One minute, a player is the face of a franchise; the next, he’s on the trading block. And right now, the Los Angeles Rams are right in the thick of it. This off-season, they are potentially reshuffling their roster in ways no one could have dreamt of. They’re about to deal away the two aces that were key to their Super Bowl LVI win.
It all kicked up with a simple comment from Matthew Stafford’s wife—one that hinted at an openness to a fresh start. Ever since Kelly Stafford gave the interview stating they loved the city and the team but wouldn’t mind moving on, free agency rumors at the Rams are strong. The statement came following Cooper Kupp‘s public announcement that the front office was looking to trade him—although he didn’t agree with it.
But it’s not just about their quarterback and WR, they also want to reinforce their defense with strong players. Eagles LB Zack Baun is rumored to be one of the prime targets of the HC Sean McVay. He was one of the key players in their Super Bowl victorious campaign in 2024. But the Rams are interested in him as he was signed on only a 1-year $3.5 million contract last off-season. The Eagles, though, completely transformed him during his stint. They started him in all 16 games. His gameplay was exceptional.
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The Los Angeles Rams are expected to target Eagles LB Zach Baun in FREE AGENCY pic.twitter.com/n1oko7kzmb
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) February 21, 2025
In 16 games last season, Baun recorded 3.5 sacks, 151 tackles (93 solo), 5 fumbles, 1 interception, 4 defended passes, and 5 QB hits. HC Sean McVay and others were impressed with his peak at just the right time. After only 1 interception in the regular season, he made his first playoff interception in the 22-10 victory against the Green Bay Packers. In Super Bowl LIX, he was extraordinary.
Against the Chiefs on February 9, he made an interception and 7 tackles, finishing the game as the Eagles‘ leading defensive player. Overall, he recorded 33 tackles (20 solo) in 4 playoff games in 2024. But the real question is, will the Eagles let him go? The Birds have finally found a lineup that is dangerous and capable of dominating any rival. HC Nick Sirianni was flying high above Cloud 9 when they won. Their GM Howie Roseman is a shrewd negotiator. So, the Rams have a huge task of convincing them to get the linebacker.
However, the problem isn’t only in the defense. They also need to sort out the most important position on the gridiron. The quarterback!
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Sean McVay’s Rams reveal the price for Matthew Stafford
The Rams’ QB situation is more confusing than it seems. While the QB hasn’t clearly said that he wanted out of the team, the Rams have also kept silent. HC Sean McVay would want Matthew Stafford to remain with them. There’s a twist. According to the Fox Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, GM Les Snead has got offers from other teams for their signal caller. The price, though, is huge.
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via Imago
Credits: Imagn
In exchange for their QB, the Rams want a first-round pick. Now, that’s a big asking price for a 37-year-old. There are also rumors that they might sign the former Jets QB Aaron Rodgers. However, A-Rod is 4 years older and nowhere near his prime. These are two possibilities at extremely opposite ends to each other. It’ll be interesting to see how it plays out. Of course, they could still convince Stafford to stay.
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Another issue is the $45.3 million dead cap hit in 2025 and approximately $23 million in 2026, associated with letting those two bigshots go. Big decisions come with big prices. But can they find a team that will give up its first-round pick? It will be hard. But anything can happen as we approach free agency.
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Are the Rams making a mistake by considering trading Stafford and Kupp, or is it a smart move?
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