The Los Angeles Rams made a splash with the acquisition of Dante Fowler Jr. at the trade deadline. However, it appears the Rams were just tempted to make a deal for Jadeveon Clowney and Jerry Hughes.
The Rams had been in the market for a talented edge rusher at the deadline. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Rams reportedly inquired about Clowney prior to Fowler:
After their significant trade offer for Khalil Mack, who ultimately was traded to the Bears, the Rams made multiple inquiries about the availability of Texans star defensive end Jadeveon Clowney in the first few weeks of the season, only to be rebuffed by Houston, sources tell ESPN.
Schefter added that Los Angeles was also looking to make a deal with the Buffalo Bills for Hughes:
Then, as they continued discussions with the Jaguars regarding Fowler, the Rams also made a push as recently as last week to acquire Bills defensive end Jerry Hughes, only to get rejected by Buffalo as well, according to sources.
It is encouraging to see the Rams were not ready to settle with the roster they had despite the undefeated start. Los Angeles has made a bevy of moves this offseason to help with this year’s playoff run. It is clear they maintained their aggressive approach all the way up to the trade deadline.
The Rams had some trouble trying to bring in another edge-rusher. They made headlines when they attempted to acquire Khalil Mack. They were then snubbed by the Bills and Houston Texans in their attempts to land a premier defensive end. It is safe to say both Clowney and Hughes would have made a welcome addition to their formidable unit up front.
Although Clowney has yet to live up to the hype of being a former No. 1 overall pick, he is still in the midst of a solid 2018 campaign. He has registered 24 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries this season. Meanwhile, Hughes has arguably been more impressive with 25 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles.
Fortunately, Los Angeles still managed to bring in a first round draft piick talent in the form of Fowler. He had a quiet debut versus the New Orleans Saints. However, Los Angeles is hoping to get some return once he gets assimilated with the scheme on defense.
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