Rams linebacker Ernest Jones is seeking a new contract, but the team isn’t willing to meet his demands.
Ernest Jones was expected to be a key player for the Los Angeles Rams’ defense in 2024 after a standout 2023 season where he set the franchise record with 145 tackles. However, things took a turn on Sunday morning when ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Rams have granted Jones and his agent permission to seek a trade.
According to sources, Jones, who will be a free agent in 2025, is the Rams’ defensive play caller and had 145 tackles and 4.5 sacks last year. Despite discussions for an extension, no progress has been made, and the Rams are now open to trading him.
This development is surprising, considering Jones’ role as a captain and one of the top performers on the team. The decision appears to be contract-related, with Jones entering the final year of his rookie deal and no extension in sight. Given the potential cost to retain Jones, the Rams may be satisfied with their depth in Christian Rozeboom, Jake Hummel, Troy Reeder, and undrafted free agent Omar Speights.
General Manager Les Snead mentioned on Saturday that Speights is likely to make the 53-man roster and have a significant role on special teams and defense.
Jones is only 24 years old and coming off his best professional season, so he is expected to have a solid market. The Rams have historically been cautious about paying big money for middle linebackers, as seen with Alec Ogletree and Sam Ebukam, who both left after good seasons due to contract issues.
Trading Jones would create a significant gap in the middle of the defense, with untested talent left to fill it. While the Rams might have high hopes for Speights based on his camp performance, it’s hard to believe they’re completely comfortable with starting an undrafted rookie in Week 1.
Nonetheless, we have seen plenty of Rozeboom, Hummel, and Reeder in recent seasons, and while they are capable players, it’s safe to say they don’t measure up to Jones’ level. The Rams’ best bet may be to hope that Speights is another hidden gem from the draft and give the rookie a chance if Jones is traded.
