Los Angeles Rams: Outside linebacker trade targets this offseason
By Jason Reed
2. Jamie Collins, Cleveland Browns
Dante Fowler and Jabaal Sheard are similar not just because of the cost of trading for them and how long they could be on the team but the type of player they are. While they are outside linebackers, in the Rams’ 3-4 defense, they really serve more as defensive ends and that is where both men thrive.
On the other hand, there are outside linebackers like Jamie Collins, who is not the defensive end mold and would be an interesting fit on the Los Angeles Rams. It might not be the best match on paper but the Rams could do something special with Collins.
Collins seems like a surefire candidate to be traded this offseason, even if it is not the Los Angeles Rams. Collins has two more years on his deal with a combined cap hit of $25.5 million. That might be a decent chunk for a linebacker but he is good enough that the Browns should be able to get a deal done for him.
The Rams could utilize Collins more in rushing the passer and he certainly would be better than he is in Cleveland just because he would be rushing alongside Aaron Donald.
However, where he thrives is as a pursuit backer that drops into coverage as well as provide run security off the edge. He has recorded over 100 tackles in every full season that he has played and his presence would shore up the middle of the field perfectly for the Rams.
The Rams can still afford a contract like Collins, especially if it is only for two years. A 2019 fourth-round pick and 2020 second-round pick should be enough to secure Collins.