The Rams continue to shock the NFL by reuniting with a 2× Super Bowl champion — the defender who allowed only 1 touchdown in 15 games on a three-year contract

Only hours after celebrating McDuffie’s historic deal, the Rams finalized a new agreement with veteran cornerback Jaylen Watson. According to Adam Schefter, the two sides reached a three-year contract that reunites Watson with familiar teammates and instantly deepens Los Angeles’ defensive backfield.

The move comes shortly after the Rams executed a blockbuster trade to acquire McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs. Upon arriving in Los Angeles, McDuffie agreed to a four-year, $124 million contract extension that includes $100 million guaranteed, officially making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history and a foundational piece of the Rams’ defensive future.

Watson arrives in Los Angeles following the best season of his professional career in 2025. Across 15 games, he recorded two interceptions, six pass breakups, two sacks, and 64 tackles while showcasing versatility in both press-man and zone coverage. Perhaps most impressively, Watson allowed only one touchdown as the nearest defender all season.

Originally selected in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 243rd overall pick, Watson quickly developed into one of the more reliable contributors within Kansas City’s celebrated draft class. That group included McDuffie, George Karlaftis, Isiah Pacheco, Leo Chenal, and Bryan Cook.

Together, that remarkable class helped the Chiefs capture two consecutive Super Bowl titles, solidifying the franchise’s place among the league’s newest dynasties. Watson’s steady development and postseason contributions made him an important part of Kansas City’s defensive identity during those championship runs and elevated his value across the league.

Rams leadership believes Watson’s championship experience and discipline in coverage will complement McDuffie perfectly in Los Angeles’ secondary. “Jaylen is a competitor who understands championship football. His instincts, physicality, and ability to lock down receivers make him exactly the kind of player we want representing this defense moving forward.”