At first glance, it appeared as though the Sammy Watkins trade between the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills came out of nowhere. It was agreed upon Thursday before the Bills’ preseason game, but the two sides began talking about a potential deal long before it came together.

On Wednesday, Rams general manager Les Snead revealed when trade discussions began between L.A. and the Bills.

You could almost see the writing on the wall back in May when the Bills declined Watkins’ fifth-year option. It was an indication that the front office wasn’t interested in keeping him around long-term, especially with a new head coach and general manager in place.

That was the point in which the Rams knew Watkins might be available for a possible trade, and wouldn’t you know, they were able to pry him from Buffalo.