Fast Willie Parker Visiting Rams

With the Rams looking to add some depth behind All-Pro Steven Jackson at running back, the team has scheduled a visit with former Steeler Willie Parker on Friday. Parker has spent his entire seven year career in Pittsburgh, and he would seemingly be a very nice fit for St. Louis. He has lost a step as his career has progressed, but he still has enough left in the tank to be an excellent complement to Jackson. He ran for over 1,000 yards for three straight seasons from 2005-2007, and he became an elite back in 2006, when he rushed for 1,494 yards and 13 scores. He was limited to just 398 yards on 98 carries last season while fighting injury and competition from Rashard Mendenhall, but he still averaged 4.0 yards per rush. The Rams need a change-of-pace back, and Parker could still be very effective in a more limited role. Also, if something were to happen to Steven, Parker has shown the ability to carry the load in his career. It remains to be seen how interested the Rams truly are, and I have a feeling that Parker’s asking price may be the deciding factor, but if he comes reasonably cheap, we could do a lot worse. Steven can’t keep carrying the complete load, especially with the quarterback situation for next season unclear, so the team will have to address the position at some point. Having the veteran presence of a guy who has spent a vast majority of his career on a winning team could greatly benefit the offense over the next few years. Like I said before, this isn’t a move that automatically makes us a great team, but it seems like a logical addition that would add some depth to the offense. As long as the price tag isn’t outrageous, I would like to fully endorse this move and I hope the team gives it some very serious consideration.