Why The Rams Signed Vernon Gholston

The St. Louis Rams signed Vernon Gholston on Wednesday afternoon, reawakening the specter of disappointing draft picks. You either reacted with a "WTF?" or a mild surprise that he was still playing football after producing nothing with the New York Jets.

Only four defensive ends suited up at Wednesday's practice, leaving the Rams short-handed at the position with a game in Dallas on Saturday. They need help. Head coach Jeff Fisher has been adamant about not playing his starters beyond a predetermined point in the game.

Gholston passed a physical - something the Andre Carter may not have done - and could round out the depth chart to get the Rams through the preseason. They're also giving him a third chance at a nominal cost. If he proves to carve out a role for himself, even better for the Rams. No players were cut to bring Gholston in, as the team had a free roster spot after trading Josh Gordy. This is about as low-risk of a move as it gets.

Teams have to cut their rosters from 90 to 75 players on Aug. 27. The final cut to 53 players comes Aug. 31.