Rams Cap Space and Free Agency

Transcript

00:00 The Los Angeles Rams emerged as a surprise team in the 2023 NFL season,

00:05 finishing 10 and 7 and clinching a wild card spot in the NFC playoffs.

00:09 Although they narrowly lost to the Detroit Lions in the postseason,

00:13 the potential return of quarterback Matthew Stafford and

00:16 defensive tackle Aaron Donald in 2024 positions them as a team just

00:20 a few strategic moves away from Super Bowl contention.

00:24 The good news for general manager Les Snead and Rams is that they hold a first

00:29 round pick in the 2024 draft marking their first opening round selection since

00:33 choosing Jared Goff at number one overall in the 2016 NFL draft.

00:38 It's been a minute.

00:39 Coach Sean McVay, who has never had a first round pick,

00:42 now has a valuable opportunity.

00:45 Considering the Rams historical success in later rounds,

00:48 anticipation is building around what they can achieve with the 19th overall pick

00:53 in their hands.

00:54 Certainly, free agency provides the Rams with an opportunity as well to enhance

00:58 their roster.

00:59 According to over the cap,

01:00 the Rams are set to have nearly $27.7 million for this year's free agency.

01:05 While it may not be a staggering amount, it could make a notable difference for

01:09 a team that has faced constraints in both cap space and

01:13 draft capital over the last off seasons.

01:16 Les Snead has indicated that the Rams won't necessarily embark on a free agent

01:21 spending spree solely because they have some cap space available this off season.

01:25 But the Rams top priority is likely securing right guard Kevin Dotson,

01:30 set to become a free agent after an impressive breakout season

01:34 obtained in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers in August.

01:37 While the team could consider the franchise tag for the 27 year old,

01:41 the cost for an offensive lineman last year was $18.24 million.

01:46 So opting for a long term deal to reduce this cap number

01:50 is likely the most strategic approach for the Rams.

01:54 Now the Rams will also have to address needs at cornerback, left tackle and

01:58 pass rusher during this off season as well.