Terms were not disclosed, but the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported Bartell gets $13.6 million in guaranteed money, with the overall deal reaching $28 million if incentives are met.

Bartell started 14 games last season. He tied a career high with three interceptions last season and broke up 20 passes, the most by a Ram since Jerametrius Butler had 22 in 2004.

"It was apparent to us that Ron fits the mold we are looking for in our defensive players," new coach Steve Spagnuolo said. "Ron is a good player and an even better person. We are glad he will be a part of our team."

Bartell spent his entire four-year career with the Rams since being selected in the second round (50th overall) in the 2005 draft. Bartell has started 36 games and played in 58, with 185 tackles, eight interceptions, 41 passes broken up and six forced turnovers in his career.

He was approached by other teams and visited New Orleans before deciding to re-sign with St. Louis.

The Rams, 2-14 last season and 5-27 over the past two seasons, targeted Bartell, Baltimore center Jason Brown and Giants safety James Butler for free agent acquisitions.

They struck a deal with Brown last week, when they also had Butler in for a visit. Talks with him are ongoing. Butler played under Spagnuolo in New York, where Spagnuolo was defensive coordinator.

St. Louis figures to make other changes before the April draft, when it has the No. 2 overall selection. The Rams are still deciding whether to keep, trade or release tackle Orlando Pace and wide receiver Tory Holt.

The Rams are also shopping for help on the defensive and offensive lines, at fullback, running back and wide receiver.