News Page

Main Content

5 Intriguing Wide Receiver Trade Targets the Rams Should Consider

Sports Illustrated's profile
Original Story by Sports Illustrated
September 24, 2026
5 Intriguing Wide Receiver Trade Targets the Rams Should Consider

Context:

Facing a need for a reliable third wide receiver behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, the Rams weigh multiple trade options as they enter the 2026 offseason. The discussion centers on balancing experience, upside, and fit within their offense, given earlier missed chances to sign bigger-name receivers and ongoing concerns about depth when Nacua or Whittington are unavailable. Candidates range from top-25 youngsters to seasoned veterans, with considerations about contract cost, positional needs, and how a move would integrate with 13-personnel usage. The outlook emphasizes evaluating roster depth through trades while monitoring health and performance across the WR group. momentum around a realistic move remains uncertain as teams weigh asset cost and fit.

Dive Deeper:

  • The Rams entered the 2026 offseason with a clear need for a third wide receiver, noting they did not add one in the draft or late free agency and passed on signings like Stefon Diggs and Keenan Allen. Injuries to Puka Nacua heighten urgency to bolster depth behind Davante Adams, and Week 2 results showed limited production from non-Adams receivers, prompting scrutiny of their current options (Konata Mumpfield, Xavier Smith, Tutu Atwell).

  • Quentin Johnston of the Chargers is highlighted as a potential target. He has struggled to deliver consistent production and yards per route run is around 0.48, suggesting a reduced role could unlock him. A trade could involve a tight end and a draft pick rather than a straight player-for-player exchange, leveraging the Rams’ depth at tight end.

  • Xavier Legette of the Panthers is another option described as a size/versatility add. Despite not meeting first-round expectations, his 6’3, 227-pound frame and return ability offer special-teams value and depth in the receiving corps, though Panthers’ own WR depth constraints could complicate a deal.

  • Jerry Jeudy of the Browns is presented as a seasoned alternative who could slot behind Nacua and Adams. At 29, he remains a strong route-runner capable of beating man coverage, and his acquisition would likely involve a Day 3 pick rather than a high-cost asset, aligning with the Rams’ window to win now.

  • Brian Thomas Jr. (Jaguars) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (Cardinals) explore higher-upside possibilities. Thomas showed elite rookie numbers but cooled last season, making a trade plausible if Jacksonville is willing. Harrison Jr. would be a long shot due to his value and the Cardinals’ rebuild, though a change of scenery could appeal if the price is right.

  • Marvin Mims of the Broncos is noted for special-teams value and deep-threat potential, offering a practical upgrade over current depth and punt return capability. Availability seems unlikely, but a formal inquiry could be warranted given the Rams’ need for a multifaceted receiver who can contribute on returns as well as as a receiver.

Latest Sports

Related Stories