Rams Acquire Chiefs CB Jaylen Watson in Free Agency

Los Angeles continues to bolster its secondary with another key addition from Kansas City.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

The Los Angeles Rams have reportedly signed cornerback Jaylen Watson to a three-year deal, further strengthening their defensive backfield. Watson is a two-time Super Bowl champion who spent the last two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he recorded 178 combined tackles, 4 sacks, and 3 interceptions.

Why it matters

The Rams' secondary was an area of need after their playoff exit last season, and this move, along with the earlier acquisition of Trent McDuffie, also from the Chiefs, shows the team's commitment to upgrading that unit. Watson's experience and success in Kansas City make him a valuable addition as the Rams look to build on their recent Super Bowl win.

The details

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Rams have signed Watson to a three-year contract. The 25-year-old cornerback has been a key contributor for the Chiefs over the past two seasons, recording 178 combined tackles, 4 sacks, and 3 interceptions. His addition, along with the trade for McDuffie, gives the Rams a formidable secondary as they aim to defend their Super Bowl title.

  • The Rams' signing of Jaylen Watson was reported on March 9, 2026.
  • The NFL's free agency period officially begins on March 13, 2026.

The players

Jaylen Watson

A 25-year-old cornerback who has spent the last two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, winning two Super Bowl championships.

Trent McDuffie

A cornerback who the Rams recently acquired in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Adam Schefter

An NFL insider who reported the Rams' signing of Jaylen Watson.

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What they’re saying

“The Los Angeles Rams are now 'The KC Rams' due to these big moves.”

— Adam Schefter, NFL Insider (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The Rams will officially sign Jaylen Watson to his three-year contract when the NFL's free agency period begins on March 13, 2026.

The takeaway

The Rams' continued investment in their secondary, with the additions of Jaylen Watson and Trent McDuffie, demonstrates their commitment to building a championship-caliber defense as they look to defend their Super Bowl title.