Jan 1, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams wide receiver Brandon Lloyd (83) catches a touchdown pass as San Francisco 49ers strong safety Donte Whitner (31) attempts to defend during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. The 49ers defeated the Rams 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Scott Rovak-US PRESSWIRE

It’s no secret that the Rams are in need of help at receiver, and news on Brandon Lloyd hit the wire on Monday. Jason LaCanfora reported early in the day that the Rams will not be placing the franchise tag on Lloyd for the upcoming season. Lloyd commented that he would be open to returning to the Rams whether it be under the franchise tag or with a contract, but there is also strong interest from the New England Patriots in reuniting Lloyd with OC Josh McDaniels.

I find the Lloyd situation to be very intriguing. It’s been my assertion that the Rams are in desperate need of an upgrade at receiver, and that’s assuming Lloyd stays in the fold. I really liked what he did last season, and I would love to see him back with the team in the coming year. With that being said, I think it’s smart for the team to stay conservative here. Lloyd is good, but I don’t believe he’s a true number one-type player. If he wants to get paid like a top guy, it might be wise to let him walk if he can get that money elsewhere. If he can be had for a reasonable price, I say bring him back. If he can get more money from someone else, I won’t be heartbroken to see someone overpay him.

I’m certainly not saying to let him walk without a fight, but the team has to be smart here. Getting Lloyd back would be great, but not if it stops us from bringing in someone through the draft or free agency who can truly be that top guy we so desperately need.

Oct 30, 2011; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams quarterback A.J. Feeley (4) drops back to pass during the first half against the New Orleans Saints at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-US PRESSWIRE

We are up to the game of the year for our offseason awards, and considering the Rams only won two games and one of those was thanks to a chip-shot field goal, it was a pretty easy choice. There weren’t many good moments for the Rams in 2011, but the 31-21 win over the New Orleans Saints on Oct. 30 was certainly one. All of the bad things that happened this season were suspended for this one week, and the Rams did the unthinkable and took down the mighty Saints.

AJ Feeley started the game under center, and he completed 20 passes for 175 yards and looked outstanding while doing it. Steven Jackson was an absolute beast, as he rushed for 159 yards and two TDs. Brandon Lloyd caught a touchdown as well, and Darian Stewart returned an interception for a score. Rookie Robert Quinn even blocked a punt in the win, capping what was pretty much as good a game as this team was capable of playing.

I was in attendance for this one, and it was pretty amazing. The crowd was into it, and the team looked like they had an extra pep in their step. The World Champion St. Louis Cardinals were in the house, making things even more exciting. We went through plenty of lows this year, but the Saints game was a pretty good high. It felt good, even if it was only for one week.