As the Los Angeles Rams weigh options to bolster their secondary, Bleacher Report’s Christopher Knox has floated a compelling idea: instead of pursuing a pricey trade to bring back Jalen Ramsey, why not sign veteran free agent Stephon Gilmore?
“Defensively, Los Angeles needs to improve a pass defense that ranked 26th in net yards per pass attempt allowed last season,” Knox wrote. “Signing a free-agent corner like Stephon Gilmore could make sense. The Rams have also expressed some interest in potentially reacquiring former starter Jalen Ramsey via trade.”
That interest in Ramsey is no secret. Head coach Sean McVay acknowledged ongoing conversations with Dolphins GM Chris Grier about a possible deal: “Les [Snead] and I have had some dialogue and discussions as it relates to the Jalen thing, but there’s really no news to report on,” McVay said.
Bleacher Report Suggests Los Angeles Rams Target Stephon Gilmore as Savvy Alternative to Jalen Ramsey Reunion
However, trading for Ramsey would likely require a substantial financial and draft commitment. Ramsey is owed over $20 million annually, and teams aren’t exactly lining up to pay that when other elite talents — like free agent Jaire Alexander and Gilmore — are available without giving up assets.
Gilmore, 34, may be in the twilight of his career, but he remains one of the most consistent and productive corners in the league. In 2024, he started 17 games for the Minnesota Vikings, finishing with 56 tackles, nine pass deflections, and an interception while helping Minnesota to a 14-3 record. Despite his age, Gilmore played over 850 defensive snaps and was a steady force in coverage all year.
The Rams’ need at cornerback is clear. The trio of Darious Williams, Ahkello Witherspoon, and Cobie Durant all posted below-average coverage grades last season per PFF, with the team ranking 21st. Simply put: there’s no true CB1 on the roster since Ramsey’s departure.
Gilmore could be that stabilizing presence — and a budget-friendly one. Unlike Ramsey, Gilmore can be signed outright without sending a single draft pick to another team. He also comes with a lower projected cap hit, making him a strategic fit for a Rams front office trying to compete while preserving long-term flexibility.
Beyond the stats and salary, Gilmore brings elite man coverage skills, leadership, and postseason pedigree — all traits that could benefit a young Rams defense.
The Rams are desperate to build on their impressive playoff run last season, and it would be wise to consider Gilmore’s championship experience and reliability. The five-time Pro Bowler and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year has missed just three games over the past three seasons.
For a team looking to return to NFC contention and maximize the final years of Matthew Stafford’s career, signing Gilmore could be a low-risk, high-reward move. Knox’s suggestion hits the mark: if the Rams want proven production without breaking the bank, Stephon Gilmore should be at the top of their list.
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