
TEAM NEEDS/OFFSEASON STRATEGY
After re-signing CB Ron Bartell, the Rams would still like to get a long-term deal done with S Oshiomogho Atogwe, who currently has the franchise tag. Center Jason Brown should upgrade the line. The Rams still are looking for a veteran backup quarterback and Gus Frerotte is believed to be their No. 1 target.
The release of LT Orlando Pace has resulted in Alex Barron moving from the right side to the left, with LG Jacob Bell having a chance to be the right tackle. But drafting a tackle in the first round remains a distinct possibility. A veteran receiver could be a need with Torry Holt released.
TEAM NEEDS
1. Tackle: With Pace having been released and Alex Barron entering the final year of his contract, a revamping of the position is possible. Whether it's in free agency or the draft, or both, the Rams are expected to begin retooling the position.
2. Middle linebacker: There is a desire to move Will Witherspoon to the outside, but it can't be done unless a credible middle man can be found.
3. Wide receiver: With Torry Holt departed, the Rams will have no veteran presence at the position.
MEDICAL WATCH: No updates.
FRANCHISE PLAYER: S Oshiomogho Atogwe: Tendered at $6.342M.
TRANSITION PLAYER: None.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
--CB Fakhir Brown was a favorite of former coach Jim Haslett, and is not expected to return.
--CB Jason Craft was acquired during the 2008 season and made some valuable contributions. Could be back at the right price.
--OT Anthony Davis didn't play after being signed during the season, but might be back to compete for depth.
--DT La'Roi Glover played with a bad knee for most of the second half of the season and is contemplating retirement.
--T/G Adam Goldberg started at four different positions last season making his versatility valuable on the line.
--OT Brandon Gorin missed the entire 2008 season with a shoulder injury and is unlikely to return.
--WR/KR Dante Hall has experienced leg injuries the last two seasons, and his age is catching up to him.
--C Nick Leckey is a battler despite being undersized, but missed the final six games because of a broken foot. Unlikely to be re-signed.
--WR Dane Looker has always gotten the most out of his ability, but coaching change might means it's the end of the line for him.
--CB Ricky Manning played five games before going on injured reserve, but could compete for a spot if recovered from his injury.
--RB Travis Minor has contributed on special teams, but it seems to be a longshot that he'll be re-signed.
--DE Eric Moore has hung around and teased with his ability, but rarely able to make an impact in games.
--OT Rob Petitti never made it to training camp after being injured in offseason workouts. Very unlikely to be back.
--LB Gary Stills added leadership to the special teams before being slowed by a knee injury. It's unknown how the new coaching staff views him.
--C Cory Withrow is another undersized lineman added to the roster because of injuries. Not expected to be re-signed.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS (not tendered)
--OG Mark Setterstrom (not tendered as RFA) has played just three games in two seasons because of two knee injuries. His rehab is going well, and could be re-signed for the minimum salary of $535,000.
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
--DE Victor Adeyanju (tendered at $1.01M with fourth-round pick as compensation) has showed steady progress in his three seasons, and he is needed for depth on the line.
--OG Richie Incognito (tendered at $1.01M with third-round pick as compensation) has ability, but has to curb his emotions during games. The question is whether he's worth a $1 million tender.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS: None.
PLAYERS RE-SIGNED
--CB Ron Bartell: UFA; $25M/4 yrs, $4.1M SB/$8.6M base guarantees; 2009 cap: $5.35M.
--QB Brock Berlin: Potential ERFA; 1 yr, terms unknown.
--LB Quinton Culberson: Potential ERFA; 1 yr, terms unknown.
PLAYERS ACQUIRED
--C Jason Brown: UFA Ravens; $37.5M/5 yrs, $11M SB/$9M base guarantees; 2009 cap: $6.2M.
--SS James Butler: UFA Giants; $14M/4 yrs, guarantees unknown.
--FB Mike Karney: FA Saints; $3.6M/3 yrs, $1.2M guaranteed.
PLAYERS LOST
--TE Anthony Becht (released).
--WR Drew Bennett (released).
--S Corey Chavous (released).
--QB Trent Green (released/failed physical).
--WR Torry Holt (released).
--OT Orlando Pace (released).
--C Brett Romberg: UFA Falcons; terms unknown.