If the rumors are accurate, the reason the Los Angeles Rams have first-round picks in 2024 and 2025 is due to what some consider a significant mistake made by the Carolina Panthers. Last year, the Rams reportedly offered the Panthers two first-round picks for Brian Burns, and there was even mention of including a second-rounder in the deal. However, this offer raised questions about its wisdom.
While Burns is a good pass rusher, he hadn’t yet reached the level of elite status that might justify trading two first-round picks. Several younger edge rushers, like Nick Bosa and Maxx Crosby, were already performing at a similar or higher level. The Rams would have sacrificed their future draft capital for a player who might not have significantly improved their team.
Moreover, the acquisition of Christian McCaffrey would have come with a hefty salary, and the Rams would have had to pay Burns a substantial amount, given the trade cost. Instead, the Rams now have Byron Young and Kyren Williams, allowing them to focus on developing cheap, young talent and building a long-term vision for success.
In hindsight, the Panthers’ decision not to accept the Rams’ offer may have inadvertently benefited the Rams by preserving their draft assets and financial flexibility.
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