As the NFL offseason draws near, teams are already scouting potential additions in free agency.
The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly eyeing former Super Bowl champion and Kansas City linebacker Nick Bolton for their defensive lineup.
Bolton, a seasoned pro out of Missouri, has played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ defense at the heart of the field. A key figure for Kansas City, the impending unrestricted free agency status of Bolton means the team must be prepared to pay a premium to retain him. After securing a four-year, $5,834,032 contract with the Chiefs when he was drafted in the second round, Bolton is now in search of a significant contract as a free agent.
According to insights from CBS Sports’ Jordan Dajani, the Rams are being speculated as a potential landing spot for Bolton, offering him the lucrative deal he seeks.
“The Rams boast a formidable defensive front with players like Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, and Byron Young. Now, they stand in need of a seasoned inside linebacker who can disrupt plays at the second level. This is where Nick Bolton comes in. With an impressive track record averaging over eight tackles per game across 57 matches, achieving three sacks in 2024, and making an impact in a previous Super Bowl appearance, Bolton’s skill set and leadership qualities present a valuable addition for L.A.,” noted Dajani.
As projected by Spotrac, Bolton’s impending deal in the upcoming offseason could potentially reach close to $50 million over four years. The Chiefs currently hold only $11.5 million in cap space, making it a challenging task for them to re-sign Bolton while managing the rest of their roster.
Having clinched a playoff spot in the previous season and advancing to the divisional round before succumbing to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Rams understood the pressing need for a linebacker upgrade. Bolton’s profile aligns perfectly with the Rams’ requirements, provided they can negotiate a deal that entices him to join their ranks.
