It's nice to get validation. Yesterday, I wondered if the Rams ought to kick the tires on C Justin Hartwig, released by Carolina earlier in the week. And today comes word via the PD that the Rams are indeed looking into Hartwig. The guy's not a Pro-Bowler, but he's a capable starting center with a solid track record. During his time starting for the Titans, from 2003-2005, the Titans' o-line twice ranked in the top 10 for pass blocking, according to Football Outsiders. He sat out 2006 with a groin injury and missed the last game of the 2007 season with a bum knee. He's only 29, though, relatively young for an offensive lineman.
Like I said before, if his health checks out, sign him. That would take care of our need for a starting center.
Brandon Chillar has yet to find a home. I'm really kind of surprised. With the flotsam and jetsam that teams have been throwing oodles of cash at in free agency, I figured Chillar to become a rich, rich man just a few days into open season. The same PD article linked above says the Rams are still on his radar. Wonder what kind of deal he's asking for?
Now for some Rams draft gossip. At his Hashmarks blog, Matt Mosley runs through the first ten picks of his mock draft. He has the Rams picking Michigan OT Jake Long; however, he does say:
He has Gholston going fifth to the Chiefs. Gholston seems to have worked his way into top five pick territory, making a trade down beyond the 5th spot a risky move to take Gholston. A trade with the Chiefs, who desperately need o-line help, might be a possibility, giving them Jake Long. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.