:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69050900/usa_today_15047585.0.jpg)
The Los Angeles Rams will not only have a new quarterback in 2021, but they will have a new center snapping the ball to Matthew Stafford.
The last time we saw the Rams — in the NFC divisional playoffs in a loss to the Green Bay Packers — Austin Blythe was snapping the ball to quarterback Jared Goff. My, how quickly things can change.
Blythe signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs on Tuesday and he has a chance to start with the team this upcoming season.
The Chiefs agreed to a 1-year deal with center Austin Blythe, per a source.
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) March 30, 2021
Blythe, 28, started all of the Rams’ 18 games (including two playoff games) in 2020. He has missed just one start since 2018. Blythe joined the Rams in 2017 and became a solid player for them.
The team wanted to keep him, but of course, their salary cap situation has made it tough for the Rams to re-sign everybody this offseason.
Brian Allen is the current favorite to start at center, and the Rams also have Coleman Shelton on the roster. The Rams could target a center at No. 57 in the second round of the 2021 draft next month.
Here’s a look at the Rams’ current free agent scorecard, via ESPN:
Recap of Rams UFAs:
— Lindsey Thiry (@LindseyThiry) March 30, 2021
OLB Leonard Floyd: LAR
TE Johnny Mundt: LAR
S John Johnson: CLE
CB Troy Hill: CLE
RB Malcolm Brown: MIA
WR Josh Reynolds: TEN
TE Gerald Everett: SEA
C Austin Blythe: KC
DE Morgan Fox: CAR
DE Derek Rivers: HOU
OLB Samson Ebukam: SF
LS Jake McQuaide: DAL