The Los Angeles Rams‘ secondary has once again become a topic of conversation after a difficult showing against the Philadelphia Eagles and the recent injury to Ahkello Witherpoon. Once considered a strength, the cornerback group now faces scrutiny, reigniting trade rumors involving Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II.
Los Angeles head coach Sean McVay built optimism around a secondary that included Witherpoon, Darious Williams, Cobie Durant, and safeties like Kamren Curl and Quentin Lake. Despite finishing 20th in pass defense last season, the group showed promise, limiting playoff opponents to just 114 net passing yards per game. However, inconsistencies remain, and Witherpoon’s recent clavicle injury leaves a void.
Greg Newsome to the Rams Trade Rumors Gain Traction
This Puka-Flex T-Shirt Is Illegal In Philly
Since then, fans and media have reignited speculation that Greg Newsome II could be a solution for Los Angeles. LA could send a fifth-round pick in 2026 to acquire the former first-round pick. Newsome’s versatility and previous production—34 career pass deflections and three interceptions—as assets to stabilize a shaky unit.
“By the trade deadline, the Browns may be strong sellers,” Moe Moton of Bleacher Report wrote this summer. “Newsome would be an appealing asset… Newsome can strengthen a pass defense, which ranked 20th in yards allowed in 2024.”
Newsome’s playoff experience in Cleveland has been limited, but a move to Los Angeles would put him on a contender and potentially secure a starting role on a team seeking depth at cornerback. With Witherpoon sidelined and the secondary exposed by the Eagles, the Newsome trade chatter has gained new urgency.
Looking Ahead for the Rams
For now, the Rams must navigate the season without one of their key corners. While Durant and Forbes provide internal reinforcement, the team’s ability to withstand further injuries will likely determine whether management revisits the Newsome option before the trade deadline.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Rams YouTube Channel