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After LA Chargers’ defensive end Joey Bosa signed a monster deal on Tuesday, Jalen Ramsey took notice that all four of the players taken ahead of him in the 2016 draft have received a second contract.
He knows he should be next.
2016 Draft Class 1-4 gettin paid & I love it kus they all deserve it!! God’s timing & blessings are truly great and they are better than what we could even imagine. As His children, what He has for US is truly special!!
— Jalen Ramsey (@jalenramsey) July 29, 2020
The expectation is that the Rams will try to secure Ramsey with a new deal as soon as possible. Like Bosa’s five-year, $135 million, Ramsey’s contract will be a monster as well. There is little chance the Rams will let Ramsey hit free agency next year, considering they gave up two first-round picks to acquire him from Jacksonville last October.
But the problem for the Rams is they may have a smaller salary cap to deal with next year. Because of the likelihood of the lack of fans in most NFL stadiums this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the 2021 salary cap could be set as low as $175 million — compared to $198 million this year.
With the need to sign Ramsey, receiver Cooper Kupp and safety John Johnson, the Rams are sure to hope their salary cap is increased. If not, they may have some very tough decisions to make.
Kupp has a major role in Sean McVay’s offense and Johnson is an anchor to the defense. The Rams want to keep these two home-grown players and with the investment in Ramsey, ugly scenarios could be in play.
The first concern is getting through the 2020 season, but the impact of the pandemic could play a role in the future of the franchise as well. It is certainly something we will be monitoring in the coming months.