Phoenix, Arizona – Mike LaFleur, former Offensive Coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams and currently the Head Coach of the Arizona Cardinals, is aggressively pushing his new team to execute a major trade to acquire Byron Young – one of the players he values most highly from his time with the Rams.
LaFleur, who witnessed the development of Byron Young since he was a rookie, believes that the 26-year-old EDGE rusher is the ideal piece to upgrade the Cardinals’ defense.
Byron Young, the Rams’ first-round selection (pick 30) in the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown tremendous potential even though he has not yet fully exploded statistically.
After three seasons, he has recorded 8.5 sacks, 84 tackles, and 17 tackles for loss. Young is famous for his “freakish athleticism,” explosive speed, and strong run defense.
The Rams currently have a very crowded EDGE room with the presence of Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, Kobie Turner, and many other young talents. Combined with salary cap pressure, Los Angeles may consider trading Byron Young if they receive a reasonable offer.
For the Arizona Cardinals, acquiring Byron Young would give Mike LaFleur a young, high-upside EDGE rusher to add to the defense. Young could immediately form a dangerous duo with the current pass rushers, elevating the overall defensive strength of the Cardinals.
LaFleur believes that Young’s outstanding athletic qualities and development potential will help him become a long-term cornerstone in the Cardinals’ defensive system.
Potential trade package: The Arizona Cardinals could send the Rams a second-round pick (around pick 40–50) along with a third-round pick or another depth player. This is considered a reasonable price for a young EDGE rusher with high upside.
Although trading Byron Young is not the top priority for the Rams (especially after they exercised his fifth-year option), the salary cap relief and additional draft capital could make it difficult for Los Angeles to refuse, especially as the team focuses on developing other young talents.
As the 2026 offseason heats up, all eyes are on the potential negotiations between the Cardinals and Rams. Acquiring Byron Young would be a strong statement by Mike LaFleur in his role as Head Coach, immediately upgrading the Arizona Cardinals’ defense.
This deal could significantly change the defensive front of both teams in the coming years and promises to be one of the most notable trades of the 2026 NFL offseason.
