The Los Angeles Rams are acquiring running back Sony Michel from the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2022 sixth-round draft pick and a 2023 fourth-round pick that are not conditional, sources told The Athletic on Wednesday.
The deal originally involved 2022 fifth- and sixth-round picks, but the two teams had to re-work the deal after the NFL stepped in, according to sources. A change in league policy prohibits exchanging conditional compensation picks.
Michel, the 31st pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, played three seasons in New England, helping the Patriots to a win against the Rams in Super Bowl 53. He’s rushed for 2,292 yards on 535 carries (4.3 yards per attempt) and 14 touchdowns.
The trade comes following the emergence of 2019 third-round pick Damien Harris as the lead back, James White established as a veteran presence and pass catcher, and rookie Rhamondre Stevenson showing flashes in two preseason games with New England.
The Rams are dealing with injuries to multiple running backs. Cam Akers is out for the season with a torn Achilles, Raymond Calais broke his foot in Saturday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, and Darrell Henderson sprained his thumb in Monday’s practice and is day to day.
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