nfl rumors
nfl rumors
With Jared Verse leaving the Los Angeles Rams, the latest NFL rumors and projections suggest that another star pass rusher, Byron Young, could follow after the 2026 season. According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Young won’t get a huge contract extension due to his age, suggesting he won’t be in the Rams’ long-term plans. While Knox didn’t explicitly say that the former third-round pick will be traded or moved after the 2026 season, the Rams also have star defensive lineman Kobie Turner’s contract to prioritize. Turner is younger than the former Tennessee product and is also listed as a top-10 2027 NFL free agent.
The one potential concern with Young is the fact that he entered the NFL as an older prospect and will turn 29 in March. He should have many good years in front of him, but he may garner shorter contract offers than some of his peers,” Knox said.
Last season, the pass rusher finished the 2025 season with 2 total tackles, 12.0 sacks, and one forced fumble across 17 games. The veteran and Verse became one of the most dangerous defensive duos, but the Rams decided to take a different route this offseason. The team traded Verse while acquiring Myles Garrett and also reunited with Aaron Donald. Donald won’t be in the Rams’ long-term plans, but after giving him a huge one-year, $20 million bonus, there probably won’t be much cap space left for both Turner and Young, who are entering the final year of their contracts.
nfl rumors
Mar 2, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tennessee defensive lineman Byron Young (DL51) participates in drills during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
NFL Rumors: Rams Projected to Lose $90M Star After 2026 Season
Decision Time
The Rams will have to decide between the defensive stars after the 2026 campaign, which is why they’re pushing for one more Super Bowl, especially after bringing back QB Matthew Stafford. Realistically, the Rams could attempt to trade Young during the upcoming season if he’s phased out. Donald is not expected to have a large workload, but any defensive changes could disrupt his full potential.
Either way, the 28-year-old is expected to have trade interest. The former third-rounder is projected to earn a three-year, $90 million deal. If the Rams can’t compensate, other teams could, especially if he’s available by November’s trade deadline.
Possible Destinations for the pass-rusher on the next pages:
nfl rumors
Mar 2, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama defensive lineman Byron Young (DL18) participates in the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports