Report: Rams' Johnson turned down trade to Saints

The Los Angeles Rams reportedly had the framework of a trade in place that would ship franchise-tagged cornerback Trumaine Johnson to New Orleans, but the five-year pro turned it down in favor of remaining in L.A., ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

The Rams used their franchise tag on Johnson for the second season in a row and almost immediately were rumored to be intent on trading him.

The Saints were willing to give up a second-round pick - they currently own the 42nd overall selection - to acquire the player, but Johnson balked at signing a long-term deal with New Orleans, Schefter reports.

Johnson is set to make $16.7 million on the franchise tag and could conceivably still draw a long-term deal if a trade comes together with another club.

Johnson racked up 57 tackles and one interception in 2016 after a career-best 71-tackle, seven-interception season in 2015.

The Saints were also in pursuit of New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler and hosted the player on a free-agent visit before he signed a tender with the Pats. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis has since said they haven't held any discussions about a Butler deal in "quite some time."