Should Rams Trade for Cornerback? Quentin Lake’s Extension Discussed

The Los Angeles Rams have shown strong performance this season, entering their bye week with a record of 5-2. Their recent victory was a decisive 35-7 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium in London. This favorable position is a significant turnaround from previous seasons when they entered the bye with a 4-10 combined record but ultimately finished with playoff berths in both years.

Rams Trade Speculation: Should They Acquire a Cornerback?

As the Rams approach the upcoming trade deadline, discussions surrounding potential acquisitions, particularly for a cornerback, have intensified. Many fans and analysts believe the team could benefit from enhancing its defensive backfield. The Rams have historically been cautious with investments in outside cornerbacks, an area that seems to be a gap in their defensive strategy.

Current Defensive Landscape

The Rams boast a competitive defense, making strides in pass rush and run defense. However, their cornerback situation remains a concern. Key players like Cobie Durant and Darious Williams have shown promise, while first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes Jr. continues to develop. There’s also the possibility of Ahkello Witherspoon returning in December, which could help strengthen the unit.

Potential Targets

Should the Rams decide to pursue a cornerback, a few names stand out:

• Roger McCreary (Tennessee Titans) – At 25, McCreary has experience with 37 starts. Though his production has dipped, he is known for his reliability and versatility, allowing him to play both inside and outside.
• Cam Taylor-Britt (Cincinnati Bengals) – A dynamic player, Taylor-Britt’s stats show a high ceiling but some inconsistency. He has also been noted as a healthy scratch recently, which could indicate trade candidacy.

While fans may dream of acquiring top-tier players like Denzel Ward or Sauce Gardner, those prospects are likely to remain with their respective teams, requiring hefty compensation. Instead, short-term investments in players like McCreary or Taylor-Britt seem more feasible.

Quentin Lake’s Contract Situation

Another topic for Rams management is the future of safety Quentin Lake. Lake, currently in a contract year, has been playing well, showcasing his growth week after week. His performances, including forced turnovers and critical plays, have made him a valuable asset. Ram’s leadership may prioritize retaining him, which would provide stability to their secondary.

As the Rams aim to stay competitive in the NFC West, they need to balance their short-term needs with future considerations, particularly concerning quarterback Matthew Stafford’s longevity. The trade deadline will provide clarity on the Rams’ strategy moving forward. Improvement in their secondary could bolster their chances as they navigate the rest of the season.