The three-team deal also sees LA moving Tutu Atwell to the Broncos.
Despite losing future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald to retirement this offseason, the Los Angeles Rams appear to be in excellent form heading into the 2024 season. While it cannot be understated, the Rams will never fill the gap that AD left behind. In the meanwhile, LA can make a blockbuster trade to patch things up.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox offered a few possible three-team transactions that might shake up the NFL before the regular season begins. Knox orchestrated a trade involving the Rams, Steelers, and Broncos, sending All-Pro defensive tackle Cameron Heyward to Los Angeles and wideout Tutu Atwell to the Mile High City.
“While Pittsburgh does not have a promising young receiver to send back to Denver, Los Angeles does.” To facilitate this three-team transaction, the Steelers might trade outstanding defensive tackle Cameron Heyward to the Rams.
Heyward, who recorded 33 tackles and two sacks in 11 games last season, has long been a key defensive player for the Steelers. However, he is nearing the end of his contract and is looking for a new one.
While the Rams only have $9.2 million in salary room, handing Heyward a new back-loaded contract might help alleviate two problems. He’d help alleviate Aaron Donald’s retirement while also helping Los Angeles return to the playoffs.”
Adding Heyward to LA’s defensive line would surely relieve the load on Kobie Turner and youngster Jared Verse. Heyward appeared in 194 regular-season games and was chosen first-team All-Pro in 2017, 2019, and 2021. The Ohio State graduate has 80.5 sacks throughout his 13-year career, including three double-digit sack seasons. He was placed on injured reserve last season after injuring his groin in Week 1 against the 49ers.
Despite being on the wrong side of 30, there is reason to hope Heyward can rebound in ’24 and be an excellent playmaker. Heyward, on the other hand, may be reluctant to leave Pittsburgh, having emphasized the importance of concluding his career with the only team he has ever played for.
DT Cameron Heyward on the importance of finishing his career with the #Steelers.
“There are certain guys that are one-helmet guys. I wanna be one of those one-helmet guys and there’s a hunger and desire there, but that doesn’t mean just hanging it up and calling it a career.” pic.twitter.com/OJSFgxdN6a
— Aaron Becker (@Aaron_M_Becker) June 4, 2024
Moving Tutu Atwell could benefit both teams, as the divisive receiver has struggled to make a consistent imprint in Hollywood. Atwell had a strong start last season before being eased out of the offense. Not everything has been his fault with the Rams, as Sean McVay has failed to incorporate him more into the offense.
Perhaps a change of scenery might be beneficial for the former Louisville great. Sure, the Broncos aren’t an appealing destination given their current roster, but Atwell would have plenty of opportunities to get touches with Sean Payton calling the plays. When targeted, he has the ability to completely destroy a defense and deal significant damage. Entering a contract year, Atwell must demonstrate his worth or risk being left behind once more.
