The Los Angeles Rams reportedly expressed interest in acquiring wide receiver Ladd McConkey from the Los Angeles Chargers ahead of Tuesday's NFL trade deadline but were turned down by their crosstown rivals.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano revealed Wednesday that the Rams were believed to be the team that contacted the Chargers about McConkey, who remained with the organization despite its winless start to the 2026 season.
“Fowler: The Chargers said no to at least one Ladd McConkey inquiry. Teams I spoke to believe the Rams were the ones to make that call. Overall, though, the Rams didn't seriously consider a receiver move because they expect both Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to return this season. And in the short term, they believe Matthew Stafford can maximize the supporting cast of receivers.”
The Rams entered the deadline seeking potential reinforcements after injuries sidelined Nacua and Adams, leaving quarterback Matthew Stafford without his top two receiving options.
Despite the reported inquiry, Los Angeles ultimately remained inactive on the trade market.
Chargers retain Ladd McConkey despite winless start to 2026 season
McConkey has recorded 17 receptions for 286 yards and one touchdown across six appearances this season, averaging 16.8 yards per reception.
The 24-year-old delivered one of his strongest performances against the Rams in Week 8, catching four passes for 86 yards, including a season-long 54-yard reception, during the Chargers' 24-9 loss.
His production has been inconsistent amid the Chargers' struggles, but he remains one of their most important offensive weapons.
The Chargers have opened the season with eight consecutive losses, falling to 0-8 following Sunday's 44-22 defeat against the Houston Texans.
Despite their disappointing record, the organization declined to move McConkey, who recorded 82 receptions for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns during his rookie campaign in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Rams have won three consecutive games to improve to 5-4 following Sunday's 20-13 victory over the Washington Commanders.
Los Angeles also explored potential acquisitions involving Josh Downs and Brian Thomas Jr., but Downs landed with the Kansas City Chiefs while Thomas remained with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Rams subsequently signed Xavier Smith and placed Jordan Whittington on injured reserve to address their receiving depth.
Los Angeles will attempt to extend its winning streak against the Arizona Cardinals (3-6) on Sunday at 1:05 p.m. PT on CBS.