Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay stated Wednesday that the team does not plan to make significant moves at the NFL trade deadline, instead banking on the return of injured players to bolster the roster. This strategy comes as NFC West rivals San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks have recently made notable acquisitions.
The Seattle Seahawks acquired All-Pro offensive guard Quenton Nelson from the Indianapolis Colts, while the 49ers added three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the same team. In contrast, the Rams appear content to rely on internal improvements as they navigate a season that began with Super Bowl expectations but has seen them fall to a 2-4 record through six games.
"Based on our situation, the good thing for us is, hopefully, some of those trades will be guys getting back from injury that haven’t played for us," McVay said. "That’s kind of the way that we look at it." He indicated that several key players, including defensive end Myles Garrett, could be back within a month, which he views as the team's primary reinforcement.
McVay also acknowledged that while the team is not actively pursuing external trades, the possibility of a move remains open if the right player becomes available at the right price. However, the immediate focus is on integrating returning players.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford echoed McVay's sentiment regarding urgency, emphasizing the need for the team to perform at a high level regardless of external factors. "I think the urgency anytime you step on a field, especially in the NFL, should be high," Stafford said. "Urgency should be at an all-time high every time you step out there. Just go out there and do the best you can."
The Rams' roster situation has been complicated by injuries to key offseason acquisitions, including cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive end Myles Garrett. The team also faces a potential need at wide receiver, particularly with Puka Nacua dealing with injuries and Davante Adams on injured reserve. The Rams opted not to draft a receiver with their first-round pick in 2026, instead selecting quarterback Ty Simpson, who is not expected to play this season.
With their first-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft already gone, the Rams are in a position where significant improvement through returning players is crucial for salvaging their season and competing in a challenging NFC West division.