Rams aim to create a trade market following the return of Darious Williams from injury

After securing two victories since Sunday, the Los Angeles Rams are attempting to project the image that they were never interested in trading wide receiver Cooper Kupp. In contrast, they are actively exploring options to trade cornerback Tre’Davious White, hoping to ignite interest in the market.

On Saturday, ESPN reported that the Rams are open to the possibility of moving White. The experienced cornerback is currently under a one-year contract worth $4.25 million. However, he has not participated in the last two games due to the return of teammate Darious Williams from injured reserve.

White, a two-time Pro Bowler during his tenure with the Buffalo Bills in 2019 and 2020, signed with the Rams in April. He has started in four games this season, but his inactivity recently raises questions about his future with the team.

According to a league source, the Rams are signaling that White is on the trading block. This strategic move allows them to gauge interest while leaving room for interpretation. If they ultimately decide against trading him, they can conveniently assert that they were never genuinely pursuing a deal.

Using the media as a tool to generate trade interest is a common practice in the NFL, and the Rams are not alone in this approach. Many teams have leveraged media reports to enhance the visibility of their players on the trading block. The recent report from ESPN has effectively made it clear that White is a candidate for a trade, especially with the trade deadline just ten days away.

The Rams’ situation with White illustrates the delicate balance teams must strike between public perception and strategic maneuvering in the trade market. While Kupp may not be on the block, White’s situation is quite different. The Rams are likely trying to create a sense of urgency among other teams, encouraging them to consider making an offer.

In the NFL, timing is everything, and the trade deadline is a crucial moment for teams to evaluate their rosters and make necessary adjustments. By openly discussing White’s availability, the Rams could be looking to initiate conversations with potential suitors, hoping to secure a deal that benefits their roster moving forward.

For White, the situation is also precarious. As a player with a proven track record and two Pro Bowl selections, he carries significant value. However, his current inactivity may be seen as a red flag by other teams. It raises questions about his fit within the Rams’ current defensive scheme and whether he can still perform at a high level.

In conclusion, the Rams are attempting to navigate a challenging landscape as they position themselves in the lead-up to the trade deadline. While they seek to downplay any notion of moving Kupp, they are simultaneously trying to capitalize on Tre’Davious White’s potential availability.

This dual approach reflects the complexities of roster management in the NFL, where teams must balance their immediate needs with future aspirations. The next ten days will be critical for the Rams as they look to enhance their roster, potentially moving White while trying to maintain a cohesive team dynamic. The spotlight is now on them to see how they will handle the unfolding trade discussions and what it means for their season ahead.