2014 Free Agent Rumor: Vikings Front Runner For Alterruan Verner, Rams In The Mix

Nov 24, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Tennessee Titans strong safety Daimion Stafford (39), cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson (29) and cornerback Alterraun Verner (20) celebrate after the Titans defeated the Oakland Raiders 23-19 at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Over the last couple of weeks, member of Rams Nation have been circling their wheel about the potential acquisition of a “big name” free agent this offseason. There was some massive debate about which All-Pro the Rams should sign between the two top-tier safeties in the class, T.J. Ward and Jairus Byrd; despite both expecting to demand contract north of $8 million.

However, with the release of Cortland Finnegan on Friday, many had turned their attention to Alterruan Verner, arguably the top cornerback available this offseason. The assumption was that Verner might be baited to come to St. Louis to follow former Titans’ “defensive assistant,” Gregg Williams; now the Rams defensive coordinator.

However, while numerous, contradicting reports have flown around about a variety of free agents, one story has appeared pretty consistent throughout the day.

Both the New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings appear to be heavily interested in the services of Alterruan Verner, but the Rams are still in the mix.

With the Vikings being nearly $40 million under the cap, it is doubtful that the St. Louis Rams would be interesting in joining a bidding war, especially when that money would be allocated elsewhere.

It is not surprising that these free agents are getting significantly stronger looks than expected this offseason. With the NFL skyrocketing the 2014 salary cap to $133 million, nearly $10 million higher than last year, more and more teams were naturally going to be willing to pay more for these veteran talents. Lets just hope the Rams can find at least one player to bolster the roster at a reasonable price!