Who should Rams GM Les Snead target in trades this offseason?
Rams general manager Les Snead has some key trades to consider this offseason.
After their 2021 Super Bowl victory, the Los Angeles Rams have scaled back on aggressive trade moves. Snead has helped shape the team through draft picks and affordable veterans, though this doesn’t rule out the possibility of making trades in the upcoming offseason. For instance, tight end Hunter Long was acquired in the 2023 offseason as part of the Jalen Ramsey trade, which also brought in Byron Young during the draft. The Rams’ most recent trade, involving cornerback Tre’Davious White, was made before the November trade deadline after a failed experiment with the former Pro Bowl player in 2024.
This offseason, Snead, head coach Sean McVay, and the Rams’ staff face important decisions. The team has made back-to-back playoff appearances, relying on a mix of strong draft picks and experienced veterans. However, key veterans like Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and Rob Havenstein now face uncertain futures due to salary cap concerns.
Snead and McVay may still try to retain these important players, potentially restructuring their contracts and reducing their salaries. Regardless, the Rams must address two key positions, and making trades could be the best way to improve these areas. Here are two players the Rams should target to strengthen these spots.
Alex Anzalone, LB, Detroit Lions
The Rams are fortunate to have solidified their defensive line and edge rush, but their inside linebacker (ILB) position remains the weakest defensive unit in 2024. The strong play in the trenches and from the outside pass rush has masked the poor performance of the ILB group. The Rams’ divisional-round loss to the Eagles highlighted the need for change, with Saquon Barkley dominating the ILB unit.
Alex Anzalone, a key player for the Detroit Lions’ defense, would be an ideal addition. Known for his ability to stop the run, Anzalone has totaled 254 tackles in 2022 and 2023. He’s also a respected team captain with the grit to match the Lions’ defensive mentality. His current contract expires in 2026, and he holds a $7.2 million cap hit, with an opt-out clause for 2025. He’s set to earn a base salary of $6 million if he stays with Detroit for another season.
The Rams could potentially leverage their former scout in Lions GM Brad Holmes to strike a deal. Anzalone would bring leadership to a position that desperately needs it, as well as a run-stuffing presence, especially following the loss to the Eagles. He wouldn’t be an overly expensive acquisition and could add respect and stability to the ILB group, while also benefiting from the young talent surrounding him.
