One year after reaching a career-high production at the center of the Los Angeles Rams defense, Ernest Jones IV is on the move. The standout linebacker has been traded to the Tennessee Titans as part of the team's final roster cutdown.
Titans Acquire Defensive Asset
In exchange for Jones, the Titans are sending a 2026 fifth-round draft pick to the Rams, who, in turn, are including a 2026 sixth-rounder in the deal. This trade marks a significant shift for Jones, who was poised to enter the final year of his rookie contract with the Rams.
Jones' departure comes after negotiations for a contract extension with the Rams fell through. With the talks stalling, Jones requested permission to seek a trade, opening the door for the Titans to snatch up the talented linebacker. Reflecting on the negotiations, Jones remarked, "The business side of negotiations could prompt a change of scenery." It's a change that both the player and the organization hope will be mutually beneficial.
Impressive Track Record
Originally a third-round pick, Jones made an immediate impact in his rookie season in 2021, contributing to the Rams' eventual Super Bowl victory. He recorded two interceptions and four pass breakups during that standout season. By 2022, Jones had established himself as a pivotal part of the Rams' defense, topping 100 tackles.
Jones further cemented his status as a defensive stalwart during the 2023 season, where he recorded 145 tackles, including 14 for loss. Additionally, he chalked up a career-high 4.5 sacks and six quarterback hits. His performances have undeniably made him one of the key defensive assets for the Rams, whose defense is now undergoing a sea of changes.
The Rams are currently in a transition phase, with a focus on retooling their roster. The loss of Jones will necessitate younger players to step up and fill the gap left by his departure and that of other stars. The Rams' celebrated defensive star, Aaron Donald, also announced his retirement during the offseason, further accentuating the need for new talent to emerge.
Tennessee's Defensive Overhaul
For the Titans, Jones represents a substantial addition to their defensive unit, which has been actively undergoing a makeover. This offseason has seen Tennessee prioritize experienced talent, bringing in veterans like L'Jarius Sneed, Jamal Adams, and Quandre Diggs. The hope is that Jones can bolster the linebacker rotation and bring the kind of high-impact play that characterized his time in Los Angeles.
With a growing list of offseason acquisitions, the Titans are clearly aiming to reconstruct a more formidable defensive lineup. Jones, with his proven track record and high-level performances, is expected to further solidify Tennessee's defensive efforts, providing immediate value to his new team.
It's a new chapter for Ernest Jones IV, one that comes with high expectations from both himself and the Titans organization. As Tennessee looks to rebound and compete at a higher level, Jones will undoubtedly be a central figure in their defensive strategies. With his keen instincts, tackling prowess, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Jones has all the tools necessary to make a lasting impact in his new home.
The Titans’ acquisition of Jones highlights the fluid nature of the NFL, where talent and opportunity often lead to unexpected and impactful moves. As Los Angeles navigates their rebuilding process, they will be looking for new leaders to rise, while Tennessee welcomes an established performer ready to elevate their defensive capabilities. For Ernest Jones IV, the trade marks the beginning of a promising new phase in an already impressive career.