Los Angeles Rams’ Pursuit of Elite Pass Rushers in 2022: A Strategic Gamble

The Los Angeles Rams’ 2022 season highlighted their aggressive approach to bolstering a defense struggling to replace the impact of Von Miller. While the team ultimately acquired Myles Garrett in 2023, the franchise’s efforts to secure top-tier pass rushers during the 2022 campaign reveal the high stakes involved in NFL free agency and trade negotiations.

Addressing the Void Left by Von Miller

Von Miller’s departure in 2022 left a significant gap in the Rams’ defensive lineup. The team, which had relied on Miller’s elite pass-rushing abilities during its Super Bowl LVI run, sought to replicate that dominance through strategic acquisitions. According to reports from NFL.com, the Rams engaged in extensive discussions with multiple teams to secure immediate help, though specific details of these talks remained largely undisclosed.

Offers for Brian Burns and Maxx Crosby

French media outlets reported that the Rams submitted “spectacular offers” for Carolina Panthers’ Brian Burns and Las Vegas Raiders’ Maxx Crosby, including “two first-round draft picks.” However, these claims lack direct verification from official NFL sources or reputable sports outlets. The Panthers and Raiders both emphasized their commitment to retaining their defensive stars, with Carolina’s general manager, Marty Hurney, stating in a Panthers press release that “Burns is a cornerstone of our defense and we have no intention of parting with him.”

Maxx Crosby’s situation mirrored this stance. The Raiders, who had relied on Crosby’s consistency since 2019, reportedly rejected any trade proposals. As 95.7 The Fan noted, “Crosby’s value as a one-man wrecking crew made him untouchable for most teams, including the Rams.”

The Acquisition of Myles Garrett

While the 2022 trade deadline negotiations did not yield immediate results, the Rams’ persistence paid off in 2023. In a blockbuster trade, the team acquired Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns, a move that addressed their long-term needs. The deal, confirmed by ESPN, included a first-round pick and a conditional second-rounder, underscoring the premium placed on elite pass rushers.

Garrett’s addition was hailed as a “game-changer” by The Los Angeles Daily News, which noted, “His ability to pressure quarterbacks aligns perfectly with the Rams’ defensive philosophy.”

The Value of Elite Pass Rushers in Modern Football

The Rams’ struggles in 2022 reflect a broader trend in the NFL: the increasing value of elite pass rushers. Teams are often unwilling to part with their top defensive talents, even for substantial compensation. As CBS Sports observed, “Players like Burns, Crosby, and Garrett are the difference-makers in today’s game, and teams are prioritizing long-term success over short-term gains.”

This dynamic has led to a “star-driven” approach in trades, where the best players command the highest prices. The Rams’ eventual acquisition of Garrett demonstrates the lengths teams will go to secure dominance on the edge.

Looking Ahead: The Impact of Strategic Moves

The Rams’ 2023 acquisition of Garrett has already shown results, with the team finishing the 2023 season as one of the league’s top defenses. However, the 2022 trade window serves as a case study in the challenges of rebuilding through free agency and trades. As Bleacher Report noted, “The Rams’ approach highlights the delicate balance between patience and urgency in modern NFL roster construction.”