The Los Angeles Rams exceeded expectations in 2024. Despite early-season inconsistency, they found their rhythm behind veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, super soph Puka Nacua, breakout running back Kyren Williams, and a revitalized defense. They finished with a solid 10-7 record and secured a playoff berth. However, their postseason run was cut short in the NFC Divisional Round. This exposed a glaring issue that must be addressed this offseason—wide receiver depth. While Nacua cemented himself as a rising star and Cooper Kupp remains a reliable target when healthy, the Rams lack a consistent third option to ease the burden on their top two playmakers.
2024’s Unanswered Questions
The Rams enter the offseason in a unique position—coming off a division title and a playoff victory. However, they also face significant uncertainty about their roster.
One of the biggest offseason storylines revolves around Cooper Kupp, who has been at the center of trade speculation. Though he remains an iconic figure in franchise history, the 31-year-old receiver hasn’t been as dominant of late. He failed to record a 100-yard game after mid-November and finished the season with 710 receiving yards. With a hefty $29.78 million cap hit in 2025, the Rams may have to make a tough decision about his future.
Matthew Stafford’s situation also raised questions early in the offseason. Reports surfaced that the veteran quarterback had discussions with other teams before ultimately returning to Los Angeles on a restructured contract. The 37-year-old signal-caller played well down the stretch in 2024 and appears to have at least one more high-level season left in him.
Despite some roster uncertainty, the Rams have an exciting young core. Their defense took major strides late in the season, showing promise for the future. However, key questions remain, particularly at wide receiver.
Here we’ll try to identify the perfect free agent who can help fill Los Angeles Rams’ biggest need in the 2025 NFL offseason.
The Wide Receiver Room
For the past two seasons, the Rams have boasted one of the NFL’s most formidable wide receiver tandems in Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. However, that duo may soon be a thing of the past. Reports indicate that the Rams may still part ways with Kupp this offseason, trading the 31-year-old veteran following another season hampered by injuries.
Even without Kupp, the Rams will still have Nacua, who emerged as one of the league’s premier wideouts in 2024. Beyond him, however, the depth chart remains unclear.
Internally, Jordan Whittington and Tutu Atwell provided solid contributions in Kupp’s absence. Meanwhile, external options such as Chris Godwin, Keenan Allen, and Marquise Brown could be intriguing targets in free agency. However, general manager Les Snead has historically been cautious about investing heavily in high-priced free agents.
The Future Without Kupp
With Stafford’s contract situation resolved, the Rams must now shift their focus to strengthening the offense. Again, the most pressing need is replacing Kupp, whose role in the offense has diminished due to injuries and Nacua’s breakout season.
Kupp, a former Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl MVP, has been granted permission to seek a trade. Now 31, he has missed 18 games over the past three seasons, leading to a decline in production. If Kupp is dealt, the Rams’ receiving corps will suddenly look thin. Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell are both set to hit free agency. If neither returns, Los Angeles will be left with just Nacua and Whittington as the only wideouts with significant playing experience from last season. This situation raises critical questions for the front office. A New York Giant, however, could be the answer.
The Right Fit
As the Rams prepare for life after Kupp, one realistic and cost-effective solution would be signing free-agent wide receiver Darius Slayton. With Robinson and Atwell both testing the market, Slayton could provide immediate reinforcements alongside Nacua.
Slayton has consistently delivered reliable WR2 production throughout his career. He surpassed 700 receiving yards while averaging 15 yards per catch in four of his first five NFL seasons. The 28-year-old has the speed to stretch the field, which would complement Nacua’s skill set and create more space in the passing game. According to PFF projections, Slayton is expected to command a three-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million. That’s a reasonable price for a proven playmaker.
A receiving corps featuring Nacua, Slayton, and a re-signed Robinson or Atwell would give Stafford a well-rounded group heading into the 2025 season. Yes, the Rams may still look to the draft for additional depth. However, adding a dependable veteran like Slayton would ensure they remain competitive in a loaded NFC West.
Conclusion: A Move That Could Elevate the Rams’ Offense
As the Rams navigate a pivotal offseason, addressing their wide receiver depth must be a top priority. With Cooper Kupp’s future uncertain and both Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell set to hit free agency, Los Angeles must ensure that Matthew Stafford has a reliable group of playmakers to keep the offense competitive. Puka Nacua has already established himself as a cornerstone piece, but he needs support. Signing Darius Slayton would be a smart, cost-effective move that provides immediate impact while maintaining roster flexibility. His speed and field-stretching ability would open up McVay’s offense, allowing the Rams to maximize their strengths and keep pace in a tough NFC West. Whether through free agency or the draft, the Rams must act decisively—but bringing in a proven playmaker like Slayton would be a step in the right direction.
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