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Five Free Agents the Rams could target

With the draft fast approaching, everyone seems to be buzzing about Ndamukong Suh (including myself). But as edpjr has pointed out, their is also a large amount of RFA/UFA's that could be hitting the market in the free agency.

Compiled below is a quick list of free agents that the Rams could target. I have no idea what will happen if the league converts to a no-cap, everyone-is-an-RFA type system, so for simplicities sake, I'm leaving that mess out. These players aren't in any order.

1) Jerious Norwood, RB, Atlanta Falcons

Grand Poobah Devaney (hopefully) knows Norwood's capabilities from his stint in Atlanta from 2006 to 2008, where Norwood enjoyed his best years. Jerious looks to be on the way out especially with Jason Snelling carrying the ball so well. He's a quick, change of pace back to Steven Jackson. There is no doubt that Rams need a second back, because Steven simply won't be able to take as much punishment as he received in 2009 much longer. He's everything the Rams would like in a second runningback; he's quick, has the ability to catch passes, has a good career YPC average (5.3 yards off of 373 attempts) and most importantly, will come rather mildly priced.

2) Tony Scheffler, TE, Denver Broncos

One McGenious' trash is another man's treasure, as the saying goes. Scheff is a young, pass-catching tight end with soft enough hands to help whoever might be the quarterback next season. He was put on the scout squad by McDaniels for being a big meanie to the coach, and much like Brandon Marshall, may be on his way out of Denver. He would be a more expensive option, but most likely wouldn't break the bank, which is something that most of the Rams free agent acquisitions this year will most likely have in common.

3) Aaron Kampman, DE, Green Bay Packers

Luckily for the Rams, Kampman has struggled of late switching to Don Caper's 3-4 scheme. He has seemed somewhat out of place as an OLB and probably would fit best if he returned to a 4-3 DE. He had an injury this year and Brad Jones did well enough as his replacement that the Packers probably won't keep Kampman around. He's still only one year removed from a 9.5 sack season, and just turned 30 a few months ago. He's a bit on the older side for the Rams, but should have plenty in the tank for a mid-length contract. Like Scheffler, he could be a bit more expensive, but the Rams are desperate for front seven help and will most likely be willing to pay quite a bit for improving it.

4) Jason Campbell, QB, Washington Redskins

Hold the phone- I just pulled a Van. This idea has met a lot of opposition, but quite frankly, you're not going to find an All-Pro, young, franchise, cheap quarterback on the market. There's been a lot of talk here about Kevin Kolb, but quite frankly, the Eagles aren't going to let him go, especially with only one year remaining on aging Donovan McNabb's contract. If the Rams are looking for something more long term, they'll either need to look in the draft or try for a QB like Campbell. Statistically, every year he has improved. His stats aren't anything to brag about, but hated OC Pat Shurmur was indeed a QB coach before coming to the Rams. Not only that, but with a few pieces available, the Rams could create a nice support system for him. He'd be a good, inexpensive pickup for the Rams should they look for another QB.

5) Donald Penn, OT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Penn is a young, talented tackle. He currently plays LT, but could probably make the transition should it be required of him. He'd most likely be a cheaper option only because of his lack of fitness. Reports came out that he tipped the scales at a Free Willy-esque 360 pounds, which is huge. Spagnuolo has had mixed success in helping offensive lineman throughout the course of the season, but a little Spagalosophy could go a long way in helping out a player condition himself. Depending on what Tampa wants to do, he may be resigned, but he'd be a great pickup should he become available.

Wilcard: Richard Marshall, CB, Carolina Panthers

Marshall is a young, physical CB from Carolina, and DC Ken Flajole would most likely have some sway in helping the Rams cause. He's on the small side, but unlike Tye Hill, he's actually put up stats. He's not the most insane ball-hawk you've ever seen, but he's picked up some nice turnover numbers in addition to his clockwork 80 or so tackles a season. The Panthers would be stupid to let him go, but should they do, the Rams would be wise to to take a look at him.

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yeah, Jason Campbell

though I’m keeping an open mind about Jimmy Clausen too

Turf Show Times

by Ryan Van Bibber on Jan 14, 2010 4:17 PM CST reply actions  

I don't particularly like him

But his stats don’t lie, and your arguments are sound..

He’d be a good acquisition. He’s a proven QB at the NFL level. He may not be amazing, but someone who is good enough to get the job done, who can efficiently pass the ball and won’t turn it over all the damn time (not too sure about this one with Campbell) is good enough for me.

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 14, 2010 4:31 PM CST up reply actions  

These sound great

        How about one of each.

by dbcouver on Jan 14, 2010 5:16 PM CST reply actions  

The Rams should at least take a look at him

I’m not saying the Rams should sign him ed. But kicking the tires isn’t going to hurt.

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 14, 2010 5:41 PM CST up reply actions  

That might

be the 1st thing I agree with you on. I’m not big on Campbell, considering I do not consider him a long term solution. He had one hell of a QB coach as his head coach and he could not develop further.

by CaliRamMan on Jan 15, 2010 1:19 AM CST up reply actions  

Agree

I have to agree with Ed…no way do I want Campbell on this team. We saw how he was behind a below average line in Washington. I’d much rather have Vick than Campbell even though Vick is a scumbag!

by ksmooth on Jan 15, 2010 3:46 PM CST up reply actions  

Not down with Campbell

The Redskins have veteran receivers and he isnt cutting it there. Honestly I think you know what you are getting with Campbell, a semi-decent qb. I would much rather take a risk on a new guy like Clausen or Bradford.

by bswish on Jan 14, 2010 6:27 PM CST reply actions  

C'mon

he’s not a first rate QB. He’s a second rate QB who has a high enough accuracy rating throughout his career that he quite possibly could have some success with the Rams.

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 14, 2010 6:32 PM CST up reply actions  

Its not fair

to put Campbell in a new offensive system with a new coordinator.

by CaliRamMan on Jan 15, 2010 1:20 AM CST up reply actions  

I'm sorry...

but I take issue with this statement. It’s not fair for a professional football player, a quarterback nonetheless who many consider should be one of if not the smartest player on the field, to have to learn a new offense? The guy is a professional athlete. His JOB is to be a good football player and earn millions of dollars doing it. He can learn something new.

You may run like Hayes, but you hit like shit.

by flipthebird on Jan 15, 2010 3:26 AM CST up reply actions  

Is Campbell a better option than Null or Boller?

Not really IHMO. Before we signed Campbell and paid him a ton, why not try Null another year. (let the boos begin). Honestly, Campbell reminds me of Tony Banks for some reason.

"The greatest accomplishment is not in never falling, but in rising again after you fall." - Vince Lombardi

by VTramsFan on Jan 14, 2010 7:01 PM CST reply actions  

Yes...

Look, Boller is horrible. He doesn’t have the type of accuracy we need. Null has absolutely zero experience and is prone to rookie mistakes.

While Campbell isn’t necessarily a great option, he would be less likely to make those mistakes that the two others (Null and Boller) would make.

IMO he is. Not saying he’s gonna be the next glorious Rams qb, but if you can have him cheaply- why not?

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 14, 2010 9:53 PM CST up reply actions  

I think I'm becoming more in favor

of drafting a QB, picking up an undrafted FA, and letting them and Null battle it out in camp and preseason. Whichever one limits his mistakes the most wins.

All the other guys on this list could help a good amount, though.

THIS year's the year. I hope....

by thisguy on Jan 14, 2010 7:24 PM CST reply actions  

If we pick up Campbell

No need to draft a developmental QB in the first 2 rounds and we can focus on our other needs.

by Mean Machine II on Jan 14, 2010 8:51 PM CST reply actions  

OUTTA all these guy!

The one I want the most is Tony Scheffler. Adding him would go a long ways to improving our receiving corp.

The name's Rams, St. Louis Rams.

by Bond_007x on Jan 14, 2010 9:14 PM CST reply actions  

If we're gonna pay some $$$, then go for Quinn. If we're cheap, go for Vick.

Either guy would be a vast improvement over the terrible trio of Bulger, Boller and Null. I agree that if Campbell can’t successfully pass to guys like Santana Moss, Antwon Randel El and Clinton Portis, how’s he gonna work with Avery, Robinson, Burton and Jax? Not tooo goood!

by edpjr on Jan 14, 2010 9:36 PM CST reply actions  

Not Campbell

If you are looking for a stopgap QB, then why not Pennington or Jeff Garcia. They at least have a winning track record

by leonphelpths on Jan 14, 2010 11:13 PM CST reply actions  

Agreed. (Garcia, not Pennington)

Why isn’t this being considered more frequently? Garcia has won everywhere he’s been. Wouldn’t be a terrible 1-year contract babysitter, if my dream of Kevin Kolb doesn’t come to pass. Sorry, Van- I can’t root for Campbell. The guy has the vacant-headed crazyeyed stare of Tiny Lister Jr.

by mooseknuckles41 on Jan 15, 2010 12:17 AM CST up reply actions  

Garcia perhaps, but he's so old

it kind of goes against everything the Rams are trying to do. I doubt Pennington will be back..I think that’s one too many surgeries for him to return to the NFL.

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 15, 2010 1:30 AM CST up reply actions  

the selling point..

for me on a guy like Garcia would be that the the organization wouldn’t be fooling themselves or their fans. You sign Campbell and you’re in for 3 years minimum. Garcia (or whoever) you get at a 1 year bargain. He gets another year in the spotlight, to go for a winner, and the team gets another deep draft of supporting characters to ready themselves for a franchise QB installation in the 2011 draft or FA.

by mooseknuckles41 on Jan 15, 2010 4:43 AM CST up reply actions  

I like the Garcia idea.

However expecting him to win may be a little much.

You may run like Hayes, but you hit like shit.

by flipthebird on Jan 15, 2010 3:29 AM CST up reply actions  

Garcia..

is a 4 time pro-bowler, and younger than Favre. He know’s the “offense” that Shurmur is trying to run, has more mobility in the pocket than Nollger could dream of, and he totally raped Tim Robbins in the shower.

We gotta go A Man Named Suh with the top pick. Suh, Atogwe, Animal Jr, and a resurgent Chris Long are the future heart & soul of a top 5 defense. The fact drafting a DT 1st overall comes in an uncapped year, before the rookie salary scale is just bad luck. Roll with it.

by mooseknuckles41 on Jan 15, 2010 4:38 AM CST up reply actions  

Saying he's younger then Favre

isn’t exactly saying much..

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 15, 2010 2:07 PM CST up reply actions  

Who do the Rams need

That’s available?

People keep complaining about needing a long-tern solution at QB. Truth is, that solution isn’t out there this year. Each Free Agent QB is a stop-gap while each rookie QB is not projected to be a game changer.

Of course a rookie can turn out well, but if the Rams take Suh first, then they definitely need to look for a temp at QB.

With that in mind, Garcia on a one-year makes sense.

by BruinHalo on Jan 16, 2010 3:25 AM CST via mobile up reply actions  

I agree 100 percent.

Folks say “long term QB solution” and “#1 WR” like they’re growing on trees, and the Rams have been avoiding long-term QBs and #1WRs on purpose.

A rookie QB in our system would fail miserably no matter the talent (if he even survived past week 5). The difference being we would have to pay a #1 QB pick a whole helluva lot more than Null to get a similar result. FA (Garcia) for 2010. Draft one in 2011.

by mooseknuckles41 on Jan 16, 2010 3:33 AM CST up reply actions  

we need good football players.

the criteria for which isn’t exclusively age.

by mooseknuckles41 on Jan 16, 2010 3:26 AM CST up reply actions  

Sheffler - Yes. McMichael - Goodbye.

McMichael looks old, and can’t seem to get seperation anymore. I like the notion of bringing in a younger TE like Sheffler who plays big and exlposive. I’m also curious as to what is happening with Carriker. Any chance he moves to DE rotation if the Rams draft Suh?

by STLRambler on Jan 15, 2010 8:50 AM CST reply actions  

The place that Carriker is moving...

… is on. One Cornhusker (Suh) will be replacing the other (Carriker)

by Da Rams! on Jan 15, 2010 4:55 PM CST up reply actions  

I think Carriker's twice damaged shoulder and bum ankle have done him in...

Nobody’s gonna offer a 7th rounder for him. Let’s just get him off the payroll ASAP and chalk up yet another wasted high round draft pick.

by edpjr on Jan 16, 2010 2:48 AM CST up reply actions  

Kampman

As a loyal cheesehead living in St. Louis, I think that this guy could help the young group of D linemen the Rams have. He is a hustle guy with great work ethic, and he has shown that he can play at a high level in a 4-3 system. I think that Kampman, Suh, Long, and any other warm body the rams have, would look like a very good d-line.

by markmikey on Jan 15, 2010 11:53 AM CST reply actions  

I would love to see the Rams

pick up Kampman and Norwood. They would provide real help in areas where we badly need it. It’s possible, of course, that one or both of them are so beat up they can’t do it any more, but if they are anywhere near their former level of play, they would have to help.

by andyrose on Jan 15, 2010 12:19 PM CST reply actions  

Kampman

He more than likely will not be a packer next season. Adding him would look pretty good. He has great work ethic. He was injured most of the season though, so hopefully he can come back in his prior condition. What is the status with Leonard Little out of curiosity? I wouldn’t mind getting Pennington or Garcia. I don’t think Campbell fits. Sheffler would be a very nice addition if we could find someone that can throw the ball and stay healthy. If we got Mccoy or Tebow, I would be happy with that as well.

by illchild on Jan 15, 2010 12:53 PM CST reply actions  

Tony yes, Garcia yes

Scheffler could make a HUGE difference on this team. He would draw more attention from the opposing D away from a WR, and provide a very credible receiving threat that we desperately need.

Garcia, though not a long-term fix, would be a more than capable short-term solution. He’s well-versed in the WCO and could step right in and produce. The reason I like Garcia is because he would be a great mentor for whomever we draft. I would sign him to a 2-3 year term and let our rookie QB learn under him for maybe a year.

by Brendan W on Jan 15, 2010 1:10 PM CST via mobile reply actions  

Not sure why you think Campbell will come cheap.

There are a few other teams that would be interested in Mr. Campbell too. Also, do you think that he will lead your team back to respectability? Or is he just a stop gap until you draft a real franchise QB?

by NorthLeft12 on Jan 15, 2010 3:02 PM CST reply actions  

No QB is cheap

If he’s going to be starting, but I think that he’d be less expensive then most other options.

I believe in 2010

by Eric Nagel on Jan 15, 2010 4:39 PM CST up reply actions  

Shanahan said that he will be having a meeting with Jason soon

and Shanahan said that he liked what Campbell has done in the past. Sounds like even if Jason won’t be the QB of the future, he’ll be around for a little bit longer. And correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t Jason a RFA?

by jb22 on Jan 15, 2010 4:06 PM CST reply actions  

You stole my thunder...

 … VTramsFan. I was reading this article thinking that Cambell has Tony Banks written all over him. But I do think he’s a better option than Boller and Null at least right now. Someone missed out of the RB equation is NY Jet Leon Washington. This guy has all the tools to be a feature back and was headed that direction prior to his season ending leg injury. The Jets probably won’t re-sign him since Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene are doing so well. Depending on the labor agreement issue he’s either an unrestricted or restricted free agent. Leon could easily share S-Jack’s workload and he will be the best change of pace back on the free agent market. And since he had that leg injury, teams will shy away from signing him as a feature back and will probably want him as a back-up. Getting Leon will save us from having to use a draft pick on a back-up RB and you’ll have a player that you know will be able to carry the offense when Jackson takes a breather.

by Da Rams! on Jan 15, 2010 4:50 PM CST reply actions  

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