With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, the Los Angeles Rams have indicated they are unlikely to pursue any significant roster moves in the immediate future, despite their ongoing challenges with injuries. Rams head coach Sean McVay provided the update on Wednesday amid a flurry of activity around the NFC West.
While division rivals Seattle and San Francisco have been active on the trade front—Seattle acquiring three-time All-Pro offensive lineman Quenton Nelson and the 49ers bringing back All-Pro defensive lineman DeForest Buckner in deals with the Indianapolis Colts—the Rams appear focused on managing their current personnel.
McVay said there have not been internal plans or discussions regarding trades at this time. “Based on our situation,” he noted, the team hopes to gain reinforcements from players returning from injury rather than adding new players via trade.
The Rams have been significantly impacted by injuries this season. Edge rusher Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has been sidelined since undergoing knee surgery after the season opener in Australia against the 49ers. Although Garrett has been eligible to return since mid-October, McVay confirmed the team has not yet opened his 21-day window to resume practicing and playing.
Other key players on injured reserve include tight end Terrance Ferguson, out with an ankle injury and not expected to practice this week; defensive linemen Poona Ford, who is done for the season with a triceps injury, and Kobie Turner, who remains sidelined due to a groin issue; and wide receiver Davante Adams, dealing with a hamstring injury that is anticipated to keep him out for several additional weeks.
General manager Les Snead, known for his willingness to execute unexpected trades—such as last year’s high-profile acquisition of Garrett—faces salary cap constraints that complicate potential moves. According to salary cap tracking sources, the Rams have only $206,406 in available cap space, the lowest figure in the league. Additionally, the team’s limited draft capital further reduces trade options.
“As we look at the guys who have not been available, key contributors on both sides of the ball, we’re hoping some will return within the next month,” McVay explained. “That’s where the value lies for us.”
Snead’s prior trade deadline activity includes notable moves, like acquiring edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. in 2018, cornerback Jalen Ramsey in 2019, signing receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and trading for edge rusher Von Miller in 2021, and a less prominent trade for defensive back Roger McCreary last season.
McVay acknowledged that while trade possibilities are always considered, the team’s approach might differ if a greater number of players were lost for the year. “The conversation could be different if we had more guys out long term,” he said. “But the good news is most of the key guys we’re missing, we expect to get back eventually—even if the exact timing is uncertain.”