The Los Angeles Rams could have the upper hand over the San Francisco 49ers if the Jacksonville Jaguars decide to trade wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. While both NFC West rivals could use additional help at wide receiver, several factors suggest the Rams are better positioned to land the former first-round pick.
From their front-office connections to their projected draft capital, the Rams have multiple advantages that could make Los Angeles a more appealing trade partner for Jacksonville.
Factor #1: James Gladstone connection
The first factor is Jaguars general manager James Gladstone, who previously served as the Director of Scouting with the Rams. Gladstone spent years working alongside Los Angeles’ front office before taking over in Jacksonville, giving the Rams a connection that San Francisco cannot match.
Gladstone is not obligated to favor his former organization, but familiarity between the two front offices could help facilitate trade discussions. He may also be less inclined to strengthen a division rival that has spent years competing against Los Angeles for NFC West supremacy.
If Jacksonville decides Thomas is available, Gladstone could be more comfortable negotiating with the Rams than helping San Francisco improve its roster.
Factor #2: 49ers have alternatives at wide receiver
San Francisco’s injuries at wide receiver could create a need for reinforcements, but the 49ers might not need to make a significant investment in Thomas. Their injured receivers could return in the coming weeks, potentially reducing the urgency to pursue a trade.
Additionally, San Francisco already has established offensive weapons in Mike Evans and George Kittle. Depending on the health of its receiving corps, the 49ers could prioritize bringing back Jauan Jennings rather than surrendering valuable draft capital for Thomas.
The Rams, meanwhile, have a compelling reason to explore the market for another receiver. Adding a young, explosive playmaker would give their offense another option capable of creating separation and stretching defenses vertically.
Factor #3: Rams could offer Jacksonville better draft capital
Perhaps the most important factor is the draft compensation Los Angeles could offer. Following a 3-4 start, the Rams are currently positioned to select 14th overall in the 2027 NFL Draft. If those projections hold, their second-round selection would be 45th overall.
San Francisco’s second-round pick is projected to fall at No. 62, giving Jacksonville a potentially less attractive option if both teams offer comparable packages.
A difference of 17 selections in the second round could matter to a rebuilding team seeking to maximize its return on a young receiver.
Ultimately, the Rams have the front-office connection, the positional need and potentially the better draft pick to make a compelling offer. San Francisco remains a possible suitor, but if the Jaguars entertain trade discussions, Los Angeles could have the advantage in the Brian Thomas Jr. sweepstakes.
