LA Rams upcoming NFL Free Agency strategy is a nail-biter

Swiss Army knife Littleton

Inside linebacker Cory Littleton is the product of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips philosophy. Mixing veterans and talented elite players. Littleton signed with the LA Rams as a UDFA.

Background – For two seasons, Littleton was a special teams’ standout for the Rams. He was promoted to starting interior linebacker for the team in 2018 and has excelled ever since. He is one of the top 10 free agents ranked by Pro Football Focus in 2020.

Strengths – Littleton brings solid pass defense and solid tackling to the interior of the Rams defense. Since his promotion to a starter, he’s averaged 130 tackles, three sacks, and eight tackles for losses per year.

Weaknesses – As strong as he is on pass defense over the middle, he is a liability on run defense. Playing behind Aaron Donald masked that weakness.

Team Impact – Littleton’s loss could force the Rams to modify how they approach their roster for 2020. If he signs elsewhere, look for the Rams to draft up to a couple hybrid linebacker/safeties in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Estimated market value – Originally estimated four-years at $50 million, but several teams are publicly announcing their interest to pursue Littleton. He could land as much as a 5-year $90 million deal.

Projected team action – Rams will likely attempt to re-sign Littleton to a long-term deal. But unless it happens very quickly, other teams with deeper pockets will likely sway his decision with more money.

Most likely team to sign him – The Green Bay Packers appear very interested in Littleton, and will likely be the high bidder. But likely a dozen NFL teams will show interest in Littleton.