Rams Must Fix Receiving Corps Before Tuesday Deadline

The Los Angeles Rams face a hard deadline at 4 p.m. ET Tuesday to address a critical weakness at wide receiver. The team has lost its two primary threats for the season, leaving the passing game to a group that has produced limited results so far.

Davante Adams and Puka Nacua are both sidelined through December. Nacua is dealing with MCL and PCL sprains and turf toe, which will keep him out until at least Week 15. The remaining depth consists of Konata Mumpfield, Tutu Atwell, and Jordan Whittington. Together, those three players have accounted for only 20 receptions, 273 yards, and one touchdown this season. Head coach Sean McVay said on Monday that the team is looking at all avenues to solve the problem.

General manager Les Snead has a track record of aggressive moves, and the current roster structure amplifies the need for help. The Rams have invested heavily in a defensive line anchored by Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald. That spending leaves little margin for error in the passing attack, increasing the likelihood of a transaction before the clock runs out.

One leading candidate is Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens. Playing on the franchise tag, Pickens may leave Dallas after this season, giving the team an incentive to sell now. Owner Jerry Jones indicated the Cowboys might listen to offers despite their 4-5 record. Pickens has hauled in 39 passes for 533 yards this year. The Rams would need to secure about $13.65 million in salary cap space to cover his guaranteed money.

Other options include Vikings receiver Jauan Jennings and Titans receiver Calvin Ridley. Jennings has struggled this season, catching just six passes for 54 yards in eight games. He finished last year with 55 receptions for 643 yards and nine touchdowns for the San Francisco 49ers. Ridley, 31, has been underutilized in Tennessee, recording six catches for 91 yards. His contract has no guaranteed money left after this season, making him a cheap addition, though his injury history remains a question mark.

The Rams could also target Colts receivers Josh Downs or Keenan Allen. The 2-7 Colts are expected to stockpile draft capital, making both players available. Downs is in the final year of his rookie deal, costing about $1.95 million. Allen, 34, has 40 receptions for 351 yards in Indianapolis. The Rams must decide which fit best before Tuesday afternoon.