LA Rams rumors of trade now reality: Michael Brockers to Detroit Lions

Rams rumors become heartbreaking reality

Over a week ago, the Rams rumors of fielding offers for Michael Brockers were first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer on his Monday Morning Quarterback article of March 8, 2021.  At that time we were more intrigued with the fact that many phone calls to the Rams about wide receiver Robert Woods. And yet, one team did contact the Rams about DL Michael Brockers.

Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes wants to rebuild the Detroit Lions defense with productive veteran leadership. And for what many believe will not yield much more than salary cap savings in the exchange, Holmes saw the opportunity to add a huge leader to the Detroit Lions locker room.

Was it the right choice to trade Brockers?  It was down to trade or cut Michael Brockers. In the end, the LA Rams were able to walk to the very familiar Detroit Lions with a trade offer to keep the veteran defensive lineman’s salary intact.

Michael Brockers delivered for the LA Rams in 2020, just as he had since 2012.  But 2020 was his second-highest total of 5.0 quarterback sacks, despite a significant reduction of defensive snaps. You see, the Rams benefitted from better play from DE Morgan Fox (UFA), and NT Greg Gaines, as well as strong play from young Sebastian Joseph Day and 2020-signed free agent NT A’Shawn Robinson. In fact, it may be that the financial impact of dealing away Robinson that forced the Rams’ hand to move veteran Brockers.

Okay, so what are the Detroit Lions getting?