Though it has not really taken off, this NFL rumor has surfaced again. I will not get into the reasons why young, unproven quarterbacks are frequently associated with the Los Angeles Rams, but the team may decide to support rookie quarterback Bo Nix by trading veteran quarterback Zach Wilson. There is still a chance Wilson will be traded, presumably to be used as backup.
According to @JFowlerESPN, “teams might offer a sixth or seventh-round pick for Zach… but the financial aspect is a concern.” This implies that the 49ers or Rams might use Zach as a backup, and it also suggests that the Jets could receive a late-round pick.
However, Wilson has struggled with his playing opportunities.
Scenario II: Why Would or Wouldn’t the Broncos Consider This?
Given that Wilson is essentially in the final year of his rookie contract and is therefore a short-term rental for any interested team, the Denver Broncos may not view him as a valuable asset. The only quarterback the Broncos need right now is a backup, as veteran Jarrett Stidham is prepared to fill in. Thus, Wilson might be seen as unnecessary.
Scenario II: Why Would the Rams Take This Into Consideration or Not?
Many do not think second-year quarterback Stetson Bennett will be the Rams’ Matthew Stafford replacement in the future. Zach Wilson might be a target at the NFL Trade Deadline if this theory is correct. There’s some basis for this, as LA Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur previously worked with Wilson at the Jets. There are those who believe that LaFleur’s dismissal was motivated by their unsuccessful partnership.
Wilson had some promise with the Broncos, but his association with LaFleur may make a trade more unlikely.
Scenario II: Final Verdict
It is not saying much, but Zach Wilson is a better trade target for the Rams than Bryce Young. The need for a trade is not urgent for either team. Wilson is expected to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season, should the Rams receive any interest.
Wilson could be acquired from the Broncos for a sixth or seventh-round pick, according to Knox, but it is unclear if Wilson would be worth that much to the Rams in 2024, raising questions about the feasibility of this trade proposal.