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REPORT: Los Angeles Rams release DB Blake Countess after asking him to take a pay cut

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that after the LA Rams drafted two safeties, they went to Blake Countess with an offer that he could refuse, so he did.

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NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at Los Angeles Rams Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams have been busy with the rebuilding efforts for the defensive backs on the roster. With the addition of free agent S Eric Weddle and two NFL Draft picks in safeties Taylor Rapp and Nick Scott, the Rams have done an admirable job filling in the vacancy left by S Lamarcus Joyner after he signed with the Oakland Raiders in free agency.

With that re-branding of the safety position, the Rams approached S Blake Countess with a pay cut opportunity, though his camp and the Rams could not come to an agreement. The Rams decided to release Countess, though they may have him return at a cheaper price down the line:

This plan to restructure his contract makes sense. Pro Football Focus gave Countess a 66.5 grade, which is to say that Countess is above average and at times played like a starter.

What this move really shows is where the front office’s mind is at when it comes to improving the run defense. Less snaps for Countess and more opportunities for a guy like Taylor Rapp to make some tackles in run situations.

The release of Countess saves the Rams $2.025m on the cap, per Over The Cap.