It’s official: the Los Angeles Rams are loading up on talented cornerbacks.
After trading for former Kansas City Chief Pro Bowl cornerback Marcus Peters, the Rams have pulled the trigger on a deal for five-time Pro Bowler Aqib Talib. In addition to trading for Peters and Talib, the Rams have signed veteran cornerback Sam Shields and have franchise tagged talented safety Lamarcus Joyner. This absolute fortification of the secondary is likely linked to the fact that the Rams will now have to do battle with the likes of Russell Wilson and Jimmy Garoppolo four times a year.
Talib has been one of the league’s best secondary defenders over the last five seasons, accumulating five Pro Bowl invitations, two All-Pro selections, and a Super Bowl ring in the process. Although he just turned 32, there’s no reason Talib can’t provide two to three more years of high level play. Given his 6’1” frame, 4.4 speed, and masterful technical skills, Talib is a rock-solid addition for a Rams team that feels like its time is now in the NFC.
On the Denver Broncos’ side of things, the trade is less than optimal. Given the Broncos’ recent struggles and the likelihood that they are going to draft and develop a raw passer like Josh Rosen or Josh Allen, Talib had expressed his desire to leave and play for one of his former coaches like Bill Belichick or Wade Phillips (Phillips is currently the Rams’ defensive coordinator). The low compensation--a fifth round pick--is more indicative of the circumstances than it is of Talib’s value. Unless the Broncos can sign Kirk Cousins, they are looking at a rebuild for the foreseeable future, and Talib is a talented veteran who wants to add to his jewellery case while playing under an old friend as a coach rather than the likes of Vance Joseph. The Broncos do still have Chris Harris and Bradley Roby, so they remain well stocked at the position in spite of the loss of Talib.
(Image Via NFL.com)
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