The Rams’ Bold Approach Continues
The Los Angeles Rams have never shied away from making aggressive moves to stay competitive. They’ve consistently pushed boundaries to keep their Super Bowl window open, and after a whirlwind 2025 free agency period, they’ve positioned themselves as contenders once again. However, to fully capitalize on their championship potential, there’s one more move they must make—trading up in the 2025 NFL Draft to secure a game-changing cornerback.
Progress Made, But Key Needs Remain
Los Angeles put together a strong offseason, headlined by the return of Matthew Stafford and the blockbuster signing of Davante Adams. Stafford, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI victory, remains the heartbeat of the offense. Adding Adams, one of the league’s premier receivers, provides an elite weapon in the passing game. His precise route running and ability to stretch defenses will only enhance Sean McVay’s offensive scheme.
Beyond these marquee moves, retaining offensive lineman Alaric Jackson was crucial for stability up front. Additionally, signing Poona Ford from the Chargers bolsters a defensive front that nearly carried the team to an NFC Championship appearance last season. One of the more surprising decisions was the contract given to Tutu Atwell. While the Rams are well-positioned for a deep postseason run, their biggest weaknesses—cornerback and linebacker—still need to be addressed. This leaves one critical move left on the table.
The Trade That Los Angeles Must Pursue
With free agency in the books, the Rams must now turn their focus to the draft. If they are serious about constructing an elite defense, trading up in the 2025 NFL Draft to land Colorado’s Travis Hunter is the smartest move they can make. Hunter, an electrifying two-way playmaker, is widely regarded as the top cornerback prospect in this year’s class. His exceptional athleticism, instinctive playmaking, and shutdown ability make him an ideal fit for the Rams’ defense, which desperately needs a true No. 1 corner.
Los Angeles does hold a first-round pick, but securing Hunter will likely require packaging additional assets to move into the top five. Given the Rams’ history of bold draft-day trades, such a move aligns perfectly with their approach. A trade package could include their first-round selection, a future pick, and possibly a player—such as safety Kam Curl.
The Rams cannot afford to enter 2025 with the same secondary that ranked 19th in PFF’s coverage grade last season. With young talent emerging at safety, some veterans could become tradeable assets. Curl, who posted solid but unspectacular grades in coverage and run defense last season, might be the odd man out with promising rookie Kamren Kinchens pushing for more playing time. Entering the final year of his contract, Curl could be a valuable trade chip.
Why Hunter is the Right Choice
So why should the Rams make such an aggressive move for Hunter? Because he’s a generational talent. At 6’1” with blazing speed and elite ball skills, he has all the attributes to become a lockdown corner in the mold of Jalen Ramsey. His ability to shadow top receivers, disrupt passing lanes, and create game-changing plays would immediately elevate the Rams’ defense.
Cornerback is also the team’s most pressing need. While linebacker depth is a concern, the Rams have a history of finding quality contributors at that position in later rounds or through undrafted signings. However, their efforts to solidify the cornerback position have been inconsistent. Darious Williams has provided steady play, but Los Angeles needs to think about a long-term successor.
Beyond just addressing a key roster hole, acquiring Hunter would transform the entire defense. A true shutdown corner takes pressure off the pass rush, allowing the front seven to play more aggressively.
While some might argue that the Rams should focus on building overall depth rather than surrendering multiple assets for one player, elite cornerbacks are incredibly difficult to find. Trading up for Hunter isn’t just about 2025—it’s about securing a cornerstone for the future.
A Franchise-Defining Decision
The Rams have never been content with mediocrity, and their offseason moves prove that once again. Retaining Stafford and pairing him with Adams signals a win-now mentality. But to take their championship aspirations to the next level, they must make one more bold move—trading up for Travis Hunter. Addressing the cornerback position with a player of Hunter’s caliber would solidify the secondary, elevate the defense, and provide Los Angeles with a franchise cornerstone for years to come. The Rams have never been afraid to bet big—now is the time to go all in once again.
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