ESPN Names NFL Franchise With 'Best' 2025 Offseason

Walder gave the Rams a solid A, citing the team's ability to make big moves that are likely to help them dominate in both the short-term and the long-term.

"The Rams' offseason was great because it involved moves that will help the team win now and later," Walder wrote.

"The offseason began with rumors that Stafford could be leaving, and the Rams granted him permission to talk to other teams to discuss his value. Though Stafford had conversations with the Giants and Raiders, he ended up re-signing with Los Angeles on a reworked deal that pays him a fully guaranteed $40 million in 2025 and a non-guaranteed $40 million in 2026. That's a good value for the team, considering Stafford's ability."

Walder further praised the Rams for making what he felt were some savvy moves such as signing All-Pro wideout Davante Adams to a two-year deal, re-signing left tackle Alaric Jackson and releasing former Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp.

"The Rams also scored big in the trade market. Most notably, they traded down with Atlanta on draft night in a deal that netted Los Angeles picks 46 and 242 and a 2026 first-rounder for Nos. 26 and 101. This was a big score, as the Rams came away in great shape in terms of average value but with upside for much more. If the Falcons fail this season -- which is squarely in the range of outcomes -- the Rams will have netted themselves a very high pick. And with Stafford being 37 years old, that pick could help bring them his successor."

Plenty of NFL teams have "won the offseason" only to fall flat on their faces in the regular season. But even if we discount the high marks that ESPN gave to the team, it really looks like the Rams have set themselves up for a strong 2025 and have pieces in place to thrive well beyond this year.