Rams fans have to be happy with what the team has done so far. It might not be the big-name players that have been speculated over the last few months, but the team has brought in quality players at need positions, and they aren’t breaking the bank to do so. Getting Quinn and the rest of the rookies done was important, especially considering the limited camp time this season, so I have to commend the organization for identifying what they needed to do and getting it done. I’m sure we aren’t done yet, because the team still needs a running back and could probably use another linebacker, so keep your eyes out for more news in the coming days.

The names I’m still hearing as far as backs go are Jason Snelling and Jerome Harrison, but don’t be shocked up another player jumps into the group. As far as linebackers go, the Rams have been in contact with Brady Poppinga and he is expected to be in for a visit on Sunday. For those of you asking about Mark Clayton, apparently his knee is not sufficiently recovered yet so he likely won’t be signed until he advances in his recovery.

As far as Jacob Bell goes, it sounds like he and James Butler are trying to restructure their contracts to stay with the team. It was reported last night that Bell was going to be released, but he is working with the team on his deal and was apparently in attendance today at camp. We should know more in the coming days, so stay tuned.

Thursday night I was very disappointed the Rams did not sign Darren Sproles; I definitely felt like he was one that got away. But the good news its that there are several good options left at the RB position. Some of the names that have been linked to the Rams include Jason Snelling (most recently with ATL), Jerome Harrison (PHI) and most recently Ronnie Brown (MIA).

Who you want the Rams to sign depends on what you are looking for in a backup.

Billy Devaney is familiar with Jason Snelling from his own days with the Falcons. However, Snelling isn’t really a complementary change of pace back; his north-south style its much more like Steven Jackson’s. Signing him wouldn’t really provide the Rams with a different offensive dynamic, but would give S Jax some relief and give the team a spot starter if needed.

Jerome Harrison of the Eagles would seem to be more of the type of back to give the team a different dynamic. For his career, Harrison has an rushing avg of 4.8 yards per carry, and has showed the ability to carry the load adequately called upon to start. In 2009 with Cleveland, he played in 14 games, starting 7, and carried 194 times for 862 yards.

The third option might be the most interesting though, in Ronnie Brown. Brown was the 2nd overall pick by Miami in 2005, and when healthy, has been a very good player. He is certainly the most dynamic of the three backs, with 184 receptions in 6 seasons. Not an eye popping number, but consider that 2 of those years were significantly cut short by injury, and the fact that the last couple of years he has been splitting time with Ricky Williams.

If you’re concerned about his age (29), consider that he only has 1312 touches for his career, compared to 2105 for Steven Jackson. Really the main concern with him is his ability to stay healthy.

So the question is, do you want the player with the highest ceiling in terms of talent and ability to bring a different dynamic to the offense (Brown), or a career backup but has fewer health concern (Snelling or Harrison)?

Myself, I’d prefer, in order, Brown, Harrison, Snelling. I know there’s a little more risk but I think the extra dynamic is worth it, especially since S Jax will still be the number one guy.

Now, with the breakneck pace things have been moving the last few days, before I post, I better check that the Rams haven’t actually signed one if these guys in the time it took me to write this (checking……). OK we’re good! I welcome any comments and discussion!