The Rams traded defensive end Kevin Carter to Tennessee in…
The Rams traded defensive end Kevin Carter to Tennessee in April 2001 for the 29th pick, which became defensive tackle Ryan Pickett. Carter started every game in four Titans seasons, totaled 23.5 sacks and reached the Pro Bowl in 2002. Pickett became a four-year starter for St. Louis after his rookie season and later enjoyed a 207-game NFL career. Both teams converted the exchange into substantial front-seven value, making this a strong even trade.
Los Angeles Rams Received
- pick 2001 1st round pick (29th overall, Ryan Pickett)
Tennessee Titans Received
- player Kevin Carter
Trade Analysis
Why Tennessee Wanted Carter
The Titans were acquiring a proven defensive lineman rather than waiting on a rookie. Kevin Carter had already been an All-Pro-caliber player with the Rams, and Tennessee gave up the 29th pick to put him directly into its defensive front. Carter rewarded that investment with unusual durability. He started all 16 games in each of his four Titans seasons, totaled 23.5 sacks during that span and reached the Pro Bowl in 2002 after a 10-sack season.
What the Rams Found at No. 29
St. Louis used the acquired first-round selection on defensive tackle Ryan Pickett. His rookie season was developmental, but he soon became a fixture. Pickett started 14 games in 2002, 13 in 2003 and all 16 games in both 2004 and 2005. That gave the Rams 59 starts over his final four seasons with the franchise. He later extended his career elsewhere and ultimately appeared in 207 NFL games, confirming the durability of the player St. Louis identified.
How Both Teams Met Their Goals
This is the kind of trade that can look different depending on whether the focus is immediate certainty or longer-term roster control. Tennessee paid a first-round pick and got four full seasons from a veteran edge defender who remained productive. St. Louis converted an established star into a younger first-round defensive tackle who became a multi-year starter. Neither return was theoretical; both clubs received substantial front-line play.
Final Verdict
Even Trade. The Rams and Titans each earn an A-. Tennessee received the immediate veteran impact it sought, including a Pro Bowl season and 64 consecutive starts. St. Louis received a younger defensive tackle who became a four-year starter after his rookie season and justified the late first-round investment. Because both teams turned the transaction into sustained, high-quality defensive-line value, forcing a winner would understate how well the deal worked for each side.