Ernest Jones landing spot: Rams allowed to trade star linebacker, according to report
Los Angeles Rams starting linebacker Ernest Jones is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and he is seeking an extension. However, ESPN reports that no progress has been made in contract talks, and Jones has now been given permission to demand a trade.
Jones, 24, was selected by LA out of South Carolina in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He had a career year in 2023 with 145 combined tackles, 4.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss and six pass defenses.
Jones has also improved his performance in the playoffs. Against the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI, he recorded seven combined tackles and a sack as well as three QB hits. Against the Detroit Lions in Super Wild Card Weekend last year, he recorded nine combined tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble.
The top 10 highest-paid linebackers are now making at least $10 million per year. It would be surprising to see the Rams move on to one of their young talents who is a leader on the defensive side of the ball, but we’ve seen plenty of trades in recent times. Where could Jones potentially end up? That’s what we’re here to examine.
Buffalo is a bit short at inside linebacker as Matt Milano is set to miss the majority of this upcoming season due to injury. torn bicepsThe Bills have lost a lot of talent on both sides of the ball this offseason, but especially on defense. Jordan Poyer, Tre’Davious White, Dane Jackson, Tim Settle and Tyrell Dodson are no longer part of the team. Bringing in a young, talented linebacker from another conference would be ideal for Buffalo – but keep in mind that the Bills would have to pay him.
Expect the Panthers to make the most of the top waiver claim in the coming days, as there is work to be done on this roster. Carolina could also consider sending a late pick for a young linebacker and paying him. The Panthers added Josey Jewell in free agency, but keep in mind that Shaq Thompson is now in the final year of his current deal.
The Texans have some talented linebackers on their roster like Christian Harris and Azeez Al-Shaair, but DeMeco Ryans values being a part of the front seven whenever possible. There are high expectations for H-Town moving forward.
Los Angeles Rams
That’s right, what are the chances that Jones will actually be traded? This isn’t a Brandon Aiyuk situation, but it’s similar in that an interested team would have to step up and meet the Rams’ trade compensation and Jones’ contract goals.
