Who Should the St. Louis Rams Keep: William Hayes or Eugene Sims?

Oct 25, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive end William Hayes (95) celebrates after sacking Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (not pictured) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Case for Keeping William Hayes

Big-boy William Hayes has been a consistent force off the bench for the St. Louis Rams ever since Jeff Fisher flew him in from the Tennessee Titans in 2012. Since leaving the Music City for the Lou, Hayes has compiled 142 tackles with 18.5 sacks. Not bad for a substitute strong side 4-3 defensive end. So if the Rams decide to ink William Hayes this upcoming offseason, past production would be a big factor in the decision.

Not only has Hayes been a productive player, but he provides an already potent defensive line with a nice veteran presence. Although Robert Quinn and Chris Long have established themselves as great team leaders, Aaron Donald, Michael Brockers, Ethan Westbrooks and Matt Longacre are relatively young and linemen that could use all the guidance they can get.

Not to mention, William Hayes is loved by his teammates and fans. Although most of Fisher’s transfers from Tennessee have been questionable additions (e.g. Cortland Finnegan and Jared Cook), Hayes has been a very consistent football player. He also does a lot of work in the community, starting a program called “Hanging with Hayes” in which homeless or disconnected youths between the ages of 16 and 21 are aided for their future to curb homelessness at an early age.

The contract William Hayes signed back in 2013 was good for about $10.3 million with $4.6 million guaranteed over three years. Considering that he only has 2.5 sacks this season at 30 years old, it’s doubtful that he asks for more money. In fact, his next contract might be cheaper. If it’s in the budget, re-signing William Hayes would be a good, cheap investment.

With defensive line coach Mike Waufle at the helm, Hayes and the “Mob Squad” can keep quarterbacks up at night for years to come.

Next: The Case for Eugene Sims