The Los Angeles Rams tendered contracts to offensive lineman Justin Dedich, kicker Harrison Mevis and wide receiver Xavier Smith, all of whom were exclusive rights free agents.
An exclusive rights free agent is any player with less than three accrued seasons and an expired contract. If his original team offers him a one-year contract at the league minimum, the player cannot negotiate with other teams.
Dedich originally joined the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of USC in 2024. He has appeared in 32 games between the regular season and playoffs over that span, making 10 starts.
Mevis signed with the Rams this past November and became their new kicker after Joshua Karty struggled. In nine games, he made 12-of-13 field goal attempts and all 39 of his extra point attempts.
Mevis was 6-for-6 on field goals in the playoffs, including the game-winning kick against the Chicago Bears that sent the Rams to the NFC Championship Game.
Smith was the team’s primary punt returner last season, returning 27 kicks for 251 yards in 16 regular season games. He was also used on offense, setting career highs with 18 receptions and 303 yards.
Each of the aforementioned players contributed to the Rams’ success last season and now will return to the team for at least one more year.
Rams keeping tabs on potential Maxx Crosby trade
With two first-round draft picks and more than $40 million in salary cap space, the Los Angeles Rams are expected to aggressively pursue roster upgrades this offseason.
One of the biggest names on the trade market is Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby, who has established himself as one of the best sack artists in the NFL today.
The Rams don’t necessarily need a pass rusher, but they are reportedly among the teams keeping tabs on a potential Crosby trade.
L.A. already has a talented defensive line, but Crosby would put them over the top and give them a unit that rivals the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.
It is believed that the Raiders are seeking at least two first-round draft picks in any trade for Crosby. The Rams can comfortably meet that price, and they are also one of the few teams that can easily absorb his $30.78 million cap hit in 2026.