LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams nearly pulled the trigger on a franchise-altering trade that would have sent 2025 receiving touchdown leader Davante Adams packing. Head coach Sean McVay confirmed Tuesday that the front office held serious internal discussions regarding a move for Philadelphia Eagles star AJ Brown, a deal that would have required moving the 33-year-old Adams to balance the books.
The NFL remains a cold business for veterans, even those coming off a season with 14 touchdowns in just 14 games. Despite Adams’ efficiency and his role in propelling LA to the NFC Championship game in January—a heartbreaking 31-27 loss to the Seahawks—the Rams were tempted by the youth and explosive upside of the 29-year-old AJ Brown. Adams currently carries a $28 million cap hit for 2026, and with Puka Nacua seeking a massive extension, the math for three elite receivers simply didn’t add up.
The organization, known for its aggressive “F-them picks” mentality, recently overhauled its secondary by acquiring former Chiefs champions Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. Adding Brown would have been the ultimate offensive counter-move. However, the Eagles’ asking price remained too steep for GM Les Snead to bite before the March 15 roster bonus deadline.
“We were transparent with Davante throughout the process. When you have a chance to look at a player like AJ Brown, you do your due diligence, but No. 17 is a massive part of what we do. He’s a pro’s pro.”
— Sean McVay, Rams Head Coach
By keeping Adams, the Rams are betting on “running it back” with a veteran core while banking on their newly fortified defense. Adams finished last season with 789 yards, showing that while his yardage totals may be dipping, his ability to find the end zone is still the best in the league. The Rams’ window is 2026. With the Seahawks holding the NFC West crown and the 49ers still lurking, LA cannot afford a slow start to training camp this July.
Expect Adams to play with a massive chip on his shoulder. He survived the trade block this time, but as his contract nears its 2027 void year, every game in 2026 serves as a live audition to prove he’s worth the $24 million cash payout he’s set to receive this season.
