DeSean Jackson and Rams mutually agree to seek trade partner for veteran WR

DeSean Jackson hasn’t been a major part of Sean McVay’s game plan in the Rams high-octane offense, and it now appears the veteran wide receiver is seeking a new NFL home.

On Friday, NFL Network’s Ian Rappaport reported the Rams and Jackson have mutually agreed to seek a trade partner.

Rappaport added, “The 34-year-old can still run, averaging 27.6 yards per catch this year, including a 75-yard TD.”

While his use has been limited, Jackson has proved he can still play at a high level and will likely be tempting for a team seeking a deep threat at wideout looking to make a playoff push.

On Jackson’s eight receptions this season – from 15 balls thrown his way, in his 100 offensive plays – he’s averaging 27.6 yards. That’s the highest average among NFL receivers with more than a few catches. It keeps him No. 1 in career yards per reception (17.6) among active players.

DeSean Jackson trade news major shift from Thursday report

The NFL is ever-changing, but Friday’s news may come as a bit of a surprise for Rams fans who follow the team’s coverage in the Los Angeles Daily News.

Less than 24 hours ago, all indications were that Jackson remained a major focal point in the Rams’ offensive plans moving forward this season.

“I’d like to be able to get DeSean more involved. It’s based on the game plan and different things,” McVay said of DeSean Jackson.

“Our job is to try to win the football game, and there’s different ways that we can do that,” McVay added.

That may have been the most telling statement from the Rams front man.

Nearing the midway point of the season, McVay and the L.A. offense rank near the top of the league in every major offensive category.

Individually, Matthew Stafford is among the league leaders in most passing categories, and his yards downfield per pass (9.2, fourth in the league) are a huge improvement over Jared Goff (6.5, 28th) last season. The NFL said Kupp is the first player in the Super Bowl era with at least 800 receiving yards and nine touchdown receptions through the first seven games. Robert Woods is ahead of his 2020 pace for yards, and Jefferson already has topped his rookie season production.

The Rams arsenal of explosive talent make DeSean Jackson disposable as the NFL trade deadline nears. If McVay and company can fill a need while unloading the veteran wideout, it clearly makes sense for both parties involved.