Andrews to LA? Examining How a Mark Andrews Trade Could Revitalize the Rams Passing Game
The Los Angeles Rams are always looking for ways to improve their offense, and a potential trade for Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews could be just the spark they need. After a 2024 season where the Rams finished 15th in total offense [7], head coach Sean McVay is seeking more versatility and explosiveness in 2025 [7]. Could Andrews be the missing piece?
The Case for Andrews in Los Angeles
Mark Andrews has been a cornerstone of the Baltimore Ravens’ offense for years. In 2024, Andrews had 55 catches for 673 yards and 11 touchdowns [2, 11]. Despite missing some games, he still tied for the lead among tight ends in touchdowns [17]. His career accolades include a First-Team All-Pro selection and multiple Pro Bowl appearances [18]. Andrews has consistently been a reliable target, with a proven track record of 700 to 1,000 yards and seven or more touchdowns in multiple seasons [18].
For the Rams, acquiring Andrews would provide an immediate upgrade at the tight end position. In 2024, the Rams cycled through several tight ends, including Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen, without finding a consistent playmaker [8]. While veteran Tyler Higbee returned from injury [10], the team could benefit from a more dynamic receiving threat at tight end [12]. The Rams also drafted Terrance Ferguson in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft [8, 9], but pairing him with a seasoned veteran like Andrews could accelerate his development and provide immediate dividends.
McVay’s Vision and Andrews’ Fit
Sean McVay has a clear vision for the Rams’ offense in 2025: more versatility [7]. The Rams’ General Manager, Les Snead, has emphasized that the team is always looking to stay ahead of how the league is adjusting to defend them [16]. Adding Andrews would provide McVay with another weapon to diversify the Rams’ attack.
Andrews’ ability to create separation, especially against linebackers, would be a significant asset in the Rams’ play-action game [12]. His presence would also open up opportunities for Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, the Rams’ star wide receivers [13, 15]. With Andrews drawing attention in the middle of the field, Adams and Nacua could find more favorable matchups on the outside.
Furthermore, the Rams recently hired Alex Van Pelt, who has experience with heavy 12-personnel offenses [15]. With Andrews and Ferguson, the Rams could run more plays out of 12-personnel, creating mismatches and keeping defenses guessing [15].
Trade Rumors and Potential Compensation
Despite his importance to the Ravens, Mark Andrews’ name has surfaced in trade rumors [3, 5, 21]. With Andrews entering the final year of his contract and the emergence of Isaiah Likely, the Ravens might consider trading Andrews to acquire draft capital [3, 21].
In a hypothetical trade scenario, the Rams could offer a fourth-round and a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft in exchange for Andrews [5]. While Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta has stated that he expects Andrews to be on the team [23], he also acknowledged that the NFL is a business and that he’s in the business of keeping great players [21].
The Ravens’ Perspective
From the Ravens’ perspective, trading Andrews would not be an easy decision. He is a team leader and a favorite target of quarterback Lamar Jackson [23]. Andrews’ 51 career touchdown receptions are the most in Ravens franchise history [23].
However, the Ravens have a capable backup in Isaiah Likely, who has shown promise when given the opportunity [3]. Trading Andrews would allow Likely to step into a larger role and give the Ravens financial flexibility to address other needs on their roster [3]. The Ravens also drafted several players in the 2025 NFL Draft to bolster their defense and offensive line [1, 6, 19].
The Rams’ Tight End Landscape
The Rams have been searching for a reliable tight end for several seasons [8, 10]. Tyler Higbee has been a solid player, but he is entering his age-32 season and is coming off a knee injury [12]. The Rams also used a second-round pick on Terrance Ferguson in the 2025 NFL Draft [8, 9].
Ferguson is an athletic tight end with the potential to become a playmaker [8]. However, he is still a rookie and will need time to develop. Acquiring Andrews would provide the Rams with a proven tight end who can contribute immediately while also serving as a mentor to Ferguson [8].
Potential Roadblocks
Despite the potential benefits of trading for Andrews, there are some potential roadblocks. Andrews is entering his 30s [21], and his contract expires after the 2025 season [21]. The Rams would need to be confident that Andrews can continue to play at a high level for the next few years to justify trading for him.
Additionally, the Rams would need to fit Andrews’ salary under their salary cap [5]. The Rams have made several moves to create cap space, including trading Cooper Kupp [22] and re-signing Alaric Jackson [13]. However, they would still need to make sure that they have enough room to accommodate Andrews’ contract [21].
Conclusion
A trade for Mark Andrews could be a game-changer for the Los Angeles Rams’ passing game. Andrews would provide Matthew Stafford with a reliable target, open up opportunities for the Rams’ wide receivers, and add another dimension to McVay’s offense. While there are some potential roadblocks, the potential benefits of acquiring Andrews outweigh the risks.