The Los Angeles Rams granted linebacker Ernest Jones IV permission to seek a trade, according to multiple reports that surfaced on Sunday. Jones later took to social media to claim he never requested a trade, but it's possible the conversation took place between the Rams and his representation. They've been entangled in a contract-related standoff.
Jones is slated to enter the final season of his four-year rookie contract in 2024. The former third-round selection is scheduled to earn an underpaid base salary of $3.1 million this season. Jones' play warrants a long-term extension.
The Rams don't typically invest big-money contracts in off-ball linebackers. The emergence of UDFA Omar Speights throughout training camp and the preseason has also made Jones more expendable. We've identified three potential landing spots for Jones via trade.
Atlanta Falcons
Jones exploded last season, totaling career-highs in tackles (145), sacks (4.5), and pass breakups (6). His defensive coordinator was Raheem Morris, who is now the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, making this a natural fit. Morris also hired Jimmy Lake as his DC, who was an assistant on the same Rams staff last season.
The Falcons have continued to aggressively upgrade their defense in recent weeks. General manager Terry Fontenot traded for pass rusher Matthew Judon and signed free-agent safety Justin Simmons. Shifting attention to the linebacker core, the Falcons are relying on some inexperienced players this season, such as Troy Andersen and JD Bertrand. Acquiring Jones would complete the defensive overhaul.
Houston Texans
The Houston Texans have been one of the more aggressive franchises in the league this offseason. They believe they can compete for a Super Bowl with quarterback C.J. Stroud this season. They’re building an elite roster around their franchise signal-caller, acquiring talents like Danielle Hunter, Denico Autry, and Azeez Al-Shaair on defense.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans played the linebacker position at a high level, giving him a special appreciation for a player of Jones' caliber. Ryans also runs a base 4-3 defense, meaning he relies on three linebackers when setting his unit up in its preferred personnel package. Acquiring Jones would give the Texans better linebacker depth next to Al-Shaair and Christian Harris, regulating Henry To'oTo'o to backup duties.
The Texans could afford to trade for Jones and extend him with Stroud in year two of his affordable rookie contract.
Carolina Panthers
Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero survived the regime change. New head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan decided to retain Evero as the DC. They should continue investing in his personnel to give him the best chance at achieving success.
The rebuilding Panthers have shown a willingness to bring in veteran defenders this offseason. They signed defensive linemen like Jadeveon Clowney and A'Shawn Robinson in free agency. Evero currently has veteran linebackers Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell starting as the duo in his 3-4 defense. Both players are past their prime.
Jones would be an upgrade that could play a vital role in both Carolina's present and future.