Carlos Watkins Joins Los Angeles Rams in Surprising Free Agency Move
In a move that has caught many by surprise, veteran defensive lineman Carlos Watkins has officially signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams. After departing the Dallas Cowboys, where he spent multiple seasons in a rotational role, Watkins now heads to the NFC West to reinforce the Rams’ defensive line.
A Career on the Move
Watkins, a former fourth-round draft pick by the Houston Texans in 2017, started his career with promise, contributing steadily over four seasons in Houston. He later signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played in a mix of starting and backup roles. However, his time with the Cowboys saw him frequently shift between the active roster and practice squad, limiting his ability to make a significant impact.
In 2023, Watkins had a brief stint with the Arizona Cardinals, where he played two games, recording seven tackles and one sack. While injuries and roster moves hindered his consistency, he remained a respected presence in the locker room. Now, at 30 years old, Watkins gets a fresh start with the Rams, who see him as a key addition to their defensive front.
Why the Rams Made the Move
The Los Angeles Rams have been undergoing a defensive transition following the departure of several key players over the last two seasons. With the retirement of Aaron Donald looming as a possibility, the Rams have been proactive in adding depth to their defensive line. Watkins brings veteran experience, versatility, and a strong work ethic, making him an appealing signing.
Los Angeles has been known for taking chances on experienced defensive linemen to complement its young core. Watkins, at 6’3” and 305 pounds, fits well into the Rams’ defensive scheme, where he is expected to play an interior role alongside younger talents. His ability to stop the run and contribute occasional pass-rush pressure makes him a valuable rotational piece.
What This Means for the Cowboys
For the Dallas Cowboys, losing Watkins leaves a gap in their defensive line rotation. While he wasn’t a full-time starter, he provided valuable depth, especially against the run. The Cowboys now face the challenge of replacing his contributions, either through free agency, the NFL Draft, or internal development.
Dallas has already been linked to several defensive line prospects in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, which suggests they were prepared for Watkins’ potential departure. However, his experience and locker room presence will still be missed.
Watkins’ Future with the Rams
With his three-year deal, Watkins now has stability for the first time in several seasons. His ability to stay healthy and carve out a consistent role will be crucial for his long-term impact with the Rams.
While Watkins is not expected to be a headline-grabbing star, his reliability and ability to plug gaps in the run game make him an underrated signing. The Rams’ coaching staff will likely use him in a rotational role, ensuring he remains fresh throughout the season.
Carlos Watkins’ move to the Los Angeles Rams marks a fresh chapter in his career. After bouncing between teams in recent years, he now has the opportunity to contribute to a Rams defense looking to rebuild into a championship contender. With his veteran presence and steady production, Watkins could prove to be one of the most valuable under-the-radar signings of the offseason.