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The Los Angeles Rams contemplated a major trade during the 2023 NFL Draft.
According to The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue, the Rams engaged in discussions to trade up into the first round for five different offensive players.
This aggressive approach by General Manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay exemplifies their commitment to maximizing the team’s championship window.
Last season, however, raised concerns about the longevity of the Rams’ current era of success. Despite their previous dominance, including a Super Bowl win in the 2021 season, warning signs emerged, indicating that the team’s competitive edge might be waning.
With this in mind, the organization explored the possibility of making a bold move during the draft to address their needs and revitalize their roster.
Ultimately, the Rams decided against executing any of the possible trades scenarios and instead opted to stay at their original position, selecting TCU guard Steve Avila with the 36th overall pick.
Avila is expected to provide an immediate boost to the Rams’ offensive line, which has been a glaring weakness for the team. However, the decision not to pursue a first-round talent leaves fans to speculate about the potential impact of those players on the team’s success.
The first round of the draft witnessed several highly touted wide receivers and cornerbacks being selected, positions that are considered crucial for the Rams’ offense.
While Cooper Kupp has been a consistent playmaker for the team, the absence of a strong secondary option has limited the passing attack. Additionally, the Rams traded away All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey earlier this offseason to the Miami Dolphins for a mid-round pick and a backup tight end.
The Rams’ conservative approach in the draft raises questions about their competitiveness in the upcoming season. After finishing with a disappointing 5-12 record in the previous campaign, the team is eager to bounce back and reclaim their status as contenders in the NFC.
The improvements made to the offensive line, coupled with the anticipated return of a healthy Matthew Stafford at quarterback, provide reasons for optimism.
However, the decision not to pursue any of the potential trades could have long-term consequences for the organization. If the Rams fail to achieve success this season, the front office may look back and regret not seizing the opportunity to make a significant move during the draft.
As the Rams embark on the 2023 NFL season, the pressure is on for McVay, Snead, and the entire organization to prove that their decision to forgo the enticing trades was the right one.
Only time will tell if the team’s calculated approach will yield the desired results or if it will ultimately be seen as a missed opportunity to secure a brighter future for the franchise.