Rams News: Ernest Jones Traded to Titans as Team Rebuilds Defense

The Los Angeles Rams have traded linebacker Ernest Jones to the Tennessee Titans, as reported by Jordan Schultz . This move follows earlier speculation about Jones' future with the team, which he publicly denied, stating he had not requested a trade. The 24-year-old linebacker, who missed Monday’s practice, had been seeking a contract extension with the Rams but could not reach an agreement.

Ernest Jones, a standout linebacker for the Rams, is set to join the Tennessee Titans. This trade comes on the heels of reports that Jones was exploring trade options, though he later clarified on social media that he had not made such a request. Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed that the team did not indicate Jones had asked for a trade, according to The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue .

Jones, drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, made an immediate impact. He played a crucial role in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, contributing seven tackles, one sack, and one pass deflection. His rookie season also saw him record 61 total tackles, one sack, four pass deflections, and two interceptions.

In 2022, Jones continued to impress, recording 114 total tackles, four tackles for loss, one interception, one forced fumble, and two pass deflections. He was named team captain and started all 15 games he appeared in during the 2023 season, amassing 145 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and six pass deflections.

The trade comes as the Rams are evaluating their linebacker depth following the emergence of rookie Omar Speights and the presence of Christian Rozeboom, Troy Reeder, and Jacob Hummel. With Jones' departure and Aaron Donald's recent retirement, the Rams' young defensive front-seven faces increased scrutiny.

Jones will now join the Titans, who are in a rebuilding phase under new head coach Brian Callahan and second-year GM Ran Carthon. The Titans finished last season with a 6-11 record, and Jones' addition may provide a significant boost as they look to turn things around.

The trade of Ernest Jones marks a significant shift for both the Rams and the Titans. For the Rams, it means a reconfiguration of their linebacker corps and increased pressure on their younger defensive players. For Jones, it's a fresh start with a Titans team aiming for improvement. As the Rams adjust to life without one of their key defensive leaders, all eyes will be on how they address their linebacker needs and whether their new defensive strategy can fill the void left by Jones.