The Los Angeles Rams’ Updated Off-Season Plan: Defense

At approximately 11:30 PST today, the Los Angeles Rams announced they (rather unsurprisingly) cut veterans Jared Cook, James Laurinaitis, and Chris Long, saving nearly $24 million in cap space. Cutting Cook made the most sense of the three that were released as he was due $8.3 million in 2016.

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Throughout his career, Cook has been an inconsistent pass catcher and sub-par run blocker; he was Pro Football Focus’ 55th rated tight end in 2015. To put things in perspective, Cook’s contract is valued at $35.1 million, the ninth highest among all tight ends. Those making less? Delanie Walker ($17.5 million), Gary Barndige ($12.3 million), Tyler Eifert ($8.256 million), Ben Watson ($4.95 million) , and Zach Ertz ($5.379 million), all who have caught more passes for more yards and more touchdowns this past season.

As for Long and Laurinaitis, the former fan-favorites were cap casualties but were willing to take pay cuts. Due $14.25 million in 2016, Long had started all but 12 games between 2008-2013, a true model of consistency. However, he has started a mere 17 games in the last two seasons and will be 31 when the 2016 season starts, reducing his production: his sack number decreased from 2012-2014 before rising again in 2015 albeit jumping for one to three. He was also one of the seven highest paid defensive ends in that same time period.

Laurinaitis found out as he was working out at the team facility but understands this is a business despite what he has left in the tank.

"“I’m going into Year 8, and I’m still 29 and I still feel like I’m playing at a productive level. I was a little shocked from that point of view but man other than that, it’s a business.-James Laurinaitis"

With Long gone, the Rams will likely re-sign William Hayes to a two-year (or longer) deal to replace him. As for Laurinaitis, expect the Rams to move Alec Olgetree inside as his replacement and re-sign hybrid safety Mark Barron to replace Ogletree on the weak side.

Now that Los Angeles has roughly $58.3 million, it’s all but guaranteed they will retain the secondary trio of Janoris Jenkins, Rodney McLeod, and Trumaine Johnson with what should result in $43 million (give or take) remaining to retain Hayes, Barron, and Co. with the opportunity to snag a free agent linebacker (I’m looking at you Bruce Irvin and Danny Trevathan) to bolster that unit.