Sean McVay is dropping breadcrumbs for strategy as trade deadline nears

The 5-2 Los Angeles Rams traded a Day 3 pick-swap with the Tennessee Titans for slot cornerback Roger McCreary. While that was the first transaction by the team before the 2025 NFL trade deadline, head coach Sean McVay is dropping breadcrumbs that it won't be the last move the team makes. It only makes sense. This team is chasing another Lombardi Trophy.

And so far, NFL experts are confirming the fact that the Rams are very much in the hunt for roster help. Fox Sports NFL analyst Ralph Vacchiano named Los Angeles as one NFL team to watch at the trade deadline. The Athletic's NFL insider Dianna Russini names LA as one of five NFL teams that have reached out to the Cincinnati Bengals to gauge their interest in trading away one of their blue-chip players.

Where there's smoke, there's usually fire.

Of course, it's unnecessary to sit side-saddle in Les Snead's office to know that he is working on making trades to improve the team. Los Angeles is among the most probable NFL teams to compete in and advance in the NFL playoffs. Right now, the general manager is trying to find that game-changing talent at an affordable price.

The Rams may be one key contributor from another Super Bowl victory

Right now, Vacchiano suggests that the Horns may be shopping for a receiver, offensive lineman, or even a place kicker. But NFL rumors reported by Russini suggest the team is shopping for a pass-rushing rental, linebacker depth, or more help in the secondary. Suffice to say that it's that time of the NFL season where practically anything goes.

Regardless of the positions sought, Snead is on the prowl for roster upgrades. And like any Alpha predator, once he catches the scent, he is relentless in his pursuit. Right now, who he is pursuing is still a bit ambiguous. But he is working the phones.

Will he succeed? Perhaps, perhaps not. That is why Coach McVay responded in coachspeak when asked if the team is still seeking roster help at the trade deadline. Perhaps the team loves a player, but not at the asking price.

Let's be clear. Sellers at the NFL trade deadline have little incentive to make a deal now. While it could generate a better-than-expected return to fuel a rebuild, the most desperate general managers understand they may not be the hand that guides draft picks to their rookies in the 2026 NFL Draft.

And even the most coveted veteran players may not be the ideal fit in Horns.

The outcome of Week 9 may play a huge factor in how the team responds to the trade deadline. If the team manages to claim a victory unscathed, the powers-that-be may remain dormant. But signs of trouble in performing, or unexpected injuries, could lead the team to make a deal.

Coach McVay dropped plenty of breadcrumbs. Now, it's simply a matter of following them to see where they lead. And as always, thanks for reading.