Sean McVay's Comment on Jalen Ramsey Contract is Good Sign for Negotiations

Though the coronavirus crisis has impeded proceedings, the Los Angeles Rams have reportedly been in contact with cornerback Jalen Ramsey and his representatives about a contract extension as the 25-year-old stud enters the final year of his rookie contract.

The Rams are certainly limited financially -- they rank dead last in the NFL in cap space -- but head coach Sean McVay recently asserted that they didn't trade for Ramsey to not sign him long-term, which bodes well for their chances to retain the former No. 5 overall pick.

"When he came in last season I was so impressed," McVay told reporters on Tuesday. "Now you have a foundation where you're able to talk to him about stuff outside of football. You really get a feel for his football acumen and seeing the game through the lens he sees it. It's going to be fun watching him grow. I'm just really enjoying getting to know him better as a human being. The more I know the more I love this guy."

Clearly, McVay gets it.

This is a positive sign for Rams fans, who will be quick to remember that the franchise forfeited two first-round picks and a fourth-round selection to acquire Ramsey in a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In doing so, Los Angeles failed to secure a long-term commitment from him, so the three-time Pro Bowler has all of the leverage in negotiations.

General manager Les Snead has been quick to sign players like defensive lineman Aaron Donald, quarterback Jared Goff, running back Todd Gurley and wide receiver Brandin Cooks to pricey contracts in recent years. One could certainly make the case that only Donald has fulfilled his end of the bargain. Those miscues have the Rams sitting $1 million over the cap, with a few of those players now officially out of town.

Ramsey will certainly be worth the price of admission, but LA is going to need to dump some salaries to make room for the All-Pro talent.