Jan 1, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams quarterback Kellen Clemens (10) looks to pass against the San Francisco 49ers from the end zone during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. The 49ers defeated the Rams 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Scott Rovak-US PRESSWIRE

Lost in the shuffle of yesterday’s schedule release was a roster move by the Rams to add some experience to the quarterback position. Well, not really add. More like keep. The team signed Kellen Clemens to a one-year deal, continuing a relationship that began in the final four weeks of last year. For those of you who don’t remember (and really, who could blame you?), Clemens was signed by the Rams late last season and started the final three games of the year.

I really like this move by the Rams. Not because Clemens is a great quarterback, although he’s more than serviceable as a backup, but because of something else he brings to the table: knowledge. Clemens spent five seasons under new offensive coordinator Brian Scottenheimer with the Jets, so he can be a tutor for Sam Bradford in working with the terminology and playbook during the offseason workouts.

It might not seem like a big deal, but having a familiar face there who can explain the nuances of the new offense will be big for Sam. I’m sure Bradford and Clemens got to know each other last season, so Sam is comfortable with him and he will listen. For what it’s worth, Clemens is very impressed with the Rams’ starter already. “I’ve been around some quarterbacks, and Sam Bradford is one of the smartest,” Clemens said. “I mean, that dude is a sponge. You tell it to him once and it’s in there. He is so impressive on so many levels. We’re early in the (offensive) install but he’s got it down pretty well.”

I know there have been a lot of people who have said a lot of good things about Sam, but after last season it’s still good to hear more. Clemens will be an asset, and even if he doesn’t make the final roster, this signing was worth it.

I would love to give Clemens the benefit of the doubt seeing as how he’s a former Oregon Duck, but the man was just let go by Houston to open a roster spot for Jeff Garcia. I can’t imagine his stay here in St. Louis is going to be a long one considering Bradford should be back soon, but I guess it’s nice to have the insurance. With Matt Gutierrez on the practice squad and Tom Brandstater taking snaps with the first team, expect Clemens to hang around for a few days and then be off to another home. Boy, it sure would be nice to have Thad Lewis right about now, wouldn’t it?

In other roster news, the Rams placed Jacob Bell on IR as he recovers from the MCL sprain. It’s the right move considering he was projected to be out 4 weeks, and he makes the third starter on the OL to go on IR this season, joining Rodger Saffold and Jason Smith. More on next page…