I agree. He has 2017 to re-establish himself. To me he's a lynchpin between the Rams being a top 10 defense and top 5. If he plays well the Rams can afford to keep him in 2018 AND afford new deals for Donald and Ogletree, plus either Alexander or Joyner (I think that's a one or the other decision). If he misses extended time again they can move on easily.
2017 also gives them a year to see how Littleton, Forest, Ebukam and Price develop. One might be ready for a starting OLB role in 2018. Maybe not. Barwin on the other side is also only on a one-year deal so I would guess development of 1-2 young OLBs is important.
