By Sunday 
Strategic Moves for a Stronger Super Bowl Push
The Los Angeles Rams have undergone a dramatic shift in team-building philosophy over the past two seasons. Once known for their aggressive, all-in approach, the team—under general manager Les Snead—has pivoted to a draft-centric strategy. That shift has already paid off, delivering back-to-back playoff appearances under head coach Sean McVay.
But just because the Rams prioritize the draft doesn’t mean they’ll ignore free agency. With over $37.3 million in salary cap space—a number expected to rise with the looming departure of Cooper Kupp—the franchise has the financial flexibility to pursue key additions. The right veterans could add both depth and crucial Super Bowl experience.
Here are three under-the-radar free agents who could make a significant impact in Los Angeles.
1. Zach Ertz – A Veteran Tight End with Playoff Pedigree
The Rams are in dire need of help at tight end. Longtime starter Tyler Higbee is expected to depart, and TE2 Colby Parkinson hasn’t lived up to expectations. Enter Zach Ertz, a proven veteran with a Super Bowl ring and a track record of reliability.
At 34 years old, Ertz may not be in his prime, but he proved in 2024 that he still has plenty left in the tank. He hauled in 66 receptions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns—his best statistical output since 2019. In the NFC Championship Game, he caught 11 passes for 104 yards, showing he can still deliver on the big stage.
Beyond his production, Ertz has ties to Southern California, having grown up in Orange. With the Rams poised to contend, a homecoming for one final Super Bowl run makes perfect sense. Plus, his market value won’t be sky-high, making him an affordable addition.
2. Carlton Davis – A Shutdown Corner with Championship DNA
The Rams’ secondary remains a work in progress. They brought back Ahkello Witherspoon, but former Pro Bowler Tre’Davious White struggled with injuries and inconsistency. A savvy, battle-tested cornerback could provide much-needed stability.
Carlton Davis, a key piece of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV defense, is an ideal fit. Last season, he posted the lowest opposing QB rating of his career (77.0) while allowing just two touchdowns on 76 targets. At 27 years old, Davis is still in his prime and brings the physicality and experience the Rams need in the secondary.
His price tag won’t break the bank, and with former Rams scout Brad Holmes now leading the Detroit Lions, L.A. could have an inside track on signing him. Adding Davis would bring a championship mentality to a unit that must improve in 2025.
3. Tee Higgins – A Game-Changer for the Offense
Here’s where things get bold. Tee Higgins is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents, with an estimated market value of $25.4 million per year. On the surface, he might seem out of the Rams’ price range.
But with Kupp likely on his way out, along with other potential departures like Higbee and right tackle Rob Havenstein, the Rams could free up enough cap space to make a move. Higgins would be worth every penny.
At 6-foot-4, he offers something the Rams’ offense has lacked—a true big-bodied perimeter target. Quarterback Matthew Stafford thrives with receivers who can win contested catches, and Higgins fits that mold perfectly.
Beyond that, Higgins already knows the system. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor comes from Sean McVay’s coaching tree, meaning Higgins wouldn’t need much time to adjust. His blend of size, skill, and familiarity with the scheme makes him an ideal candidate to replace Kupp as the team’s No. 1 wideout.
Final Thoughts
The Rams have built a playoff-caliber roster through the draft, but adding experienced, championship-proven veterans could be the final step toward another deep postseason run. Ertz brings leadership and reliability, Davis fortifies the secondary, and Higgins provides a dynamic new weapon for Stafford.
With cap space available and key departures looming, Los Angeles has the flexibility to make strategic moves. If they play their cards right, these hidden gems could be the difference between a solid season and another Super Bowl parade in L.A.