Jaylen Watson. Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Rams bolster secondary with addition of CB Jaylen Watson

By Mike J. Asti | Last updated Mar 9, 2026 1:56 PM ET

In an effort to bolster their secondary, the Los Angeles Rams have agreed to a deal with former Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson for three years.

Announced on Monday in the midst of the NFL's frenzy of deals to kick off the week, Watson's contract with the Rams is for $51 million with $34 million guaranteed.

Coming off a loss in the NFC Championship Game to the eventual champion Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles is hoping to improve its pass defense with Watson. The Rams allowed an average of 216.7 yards per game through the air, which was good enough to only be ranked 19th in the league.

Jaylen Watson is coming off his best individual season

Last season, Watson had his best individual season yet. Despite the Chiefs failing to even reach the playoffs after appearing in the Super Bowl in each of Watson's first three seasons, he recorded a career-high 64 total tackles and two interceptions.

Rams signing CB Jaylen Watson to three-year, $51M deal with $34M guaranteed. (via @rapsheet, @mikegarafolo, @tompelissero) pic.twitter.com/b2bjpHNXsD
— NFL (@NFL) March 9, 2026

Jaylen Watson will be in his prime years during his new contract

At 27, Los Angeles is banking on Watson just now hitting his prime and being able to make more of an impact in the coming seasons. His previous high in tackles came during his rookie year with 49.

He also brings tons of playoff experience, having already played in 10 playoff games and three Super Bowls — winning two and posting 23 combined tackles, two picks and a fumble recovery in his postseason career.

Earning a big contract ahead of his fifth season also further exemplifies how Watson has vastly exceeded his draft position. He was selected in the seventh round with the 243rd overall pick by the Chiefs in 2022.

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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