Please. No handwringing over this.
The Rams are only one side of the equation. They simply do not control the process.
The players and their agents have the greater odds of getting the best contract by going to FA. Of course, FAs can at times overplay their hands. But, again, what is a team to do about that?
What could be more fair than for the Rams and player to agree that by going FA, the true market will be discovered. And then, if the player would like to stay where he is, and his current team is willing to pay market value, then you have a deal. If not.....
But, especially on a second contract, this is when the player stands to make his largest financial gain.
That said, the Rams aren't going to sit still. There are other FA OGs and C's on the market and they aren't chopped liver. The Rams aren't likely to put themselves in a position of desperation because they wait too long to make a move. And they are well aware that protecting Stafford is the most important thing they must do, trumping a greater pass rush on the D side. They will pay the money necessary to do so.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 02/29/2024 04:40AM by RockRam.