While the Los Angeles Rams are proceeding into the 2026 season with Davante Adams, the future of the position remains in doubt as both Adams and Puka Nacua are set to be free agents after the season. While Nacua is expected to sign an extension at some point, the Rams have already begun looking for Adams’ replacement, even reaching out to the Philadelphia Eagles for A.J. Brown.
However, there’s one candidate who seems primed for a career restart. Considering his knowledge of the McVay offense, his production, and his contract, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr could become the piece the Rams use to replace Adams.
There’s already a theory that the Rams have faith in Konata Mumpfield as Adams’ successor, but the stars are aligning for a move to add Thomas. Recently, CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan named Thomas as a player who is running out of time to prove themselves.
Brian Thomas Jr. was otherworldly during his rookie season, setting franchise rookie records in receptions (87), receiving yards (1,282) and receiving touchdowns (10) in 2024.
However, the first-rounder out of LSU endured a sophomore slump in 2025, with his numbers dipping across the board. Moreover, Jaguars receivers Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers seemingly leapfrogged him for targets. That’s not even mentioning Travis Hunter’s role in the passing game.
Why Brian Thomas Jr. could be the answer for the Rams
Thomas is simply a victim of being in an offense that spreads the ball around, especially since Liam Coen loves to run the football. In the Rams’ offense, he would receive the amount of targets that would elevate his stat sheet to the level that properly reflects his talent and promise.
With Matthew Stafford’s career winding down, he needs playmakers who can make tough catches in case he has to start forcing throws. On the flip side, if the Rams are playing with a lead, Thomas has the talent to pick apart a defense trying to dissect the run and the pass.
Thomas also has two years remaining on his rookie deal, plus a fifth-year option. That means any extension wouldn’t start until 2029, providing the Rams the financial flexibility needed to work all these contracts within the cap.
Thomas’ trade value would also decrease, and with a general manager like James Gladstone, these guys love to accumulate picks just to spend them. Thus, Gladstone might be willing to prioritize quantity over quality, so he can then flip those picks for players in the same way Les Snead does. Considering Gladstone was Snead’s protoge with the Rams, this move has every reason to work if both sides see fit to do a deal.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Brian Thomas Jr. could be answer to Rams’ long-term question at WR
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brock Vierra, Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
