Rams Update: Stafford, Free Agency, Draft

0:00From NFL coverage, this is your March 4th update. The Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for free agency with positive updates from head coach Sean McVeigh and general manager, LesNeed. They've had great talks with quarterback Matthew Stafford on a new contract, calling the situation very stable, unlike their tense past negotiations. The team also holds two first round draft picks and is open to trading one for proven player, just like they did before with guys like Stafford, himself. Meanwhile, the Rams would love to bring back backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo next season, but they get that his market could be hot for teams. Needing a bridge option, Titan Tyler Higby, a free agent, is still weighing if he even wants to play an 11th year, though they'd welcome him back if he does. They're not chasing a restructure for wide receiver Devonce Adams since he's under contract elsewhere. On the free agency front, the Rams plan to let most of their pending free agents, including several cornerbacks, test the open market before circling, back to reassign them.

1:04They reassign safety Quinn Lake already, but that won't stop them from pursuing top free agent safety, Cam Curl, since the two play slightly. Different roles. McVeigh admitted parting ways with longtime assistant Aubrey Pleasant was tough, but it was best for both sides. Students need emphasized using free agency to fill key needs like cornerback, safety, or wide receiver, so they won't feel desperate heading into the draft. Contracts for their 2023 draft picks, such as wide receiver Puka Nakua, will wait until after the draft. They're not rushing to find Stafford's successor either, given the week quarterback class this year. As for decisions like picking up cornerback Emanuel Forbes Jr.'s fifth year option, worth about 12,630,000, dollars, they'll hold off into the May 1 deadline. McVeigh confirmed he'll keep calling offensive plays next season, though he's open to handing it off someday. All options are on the table as free agency kicks off next week. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor. See the description.

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