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

The other LB Hager

The LA Rams must also brace for the loss of another starting inside linebacker, Bryce Hager, who stepped up for the team in 2019. Unfortunately, his debut as a starter was short-lived.

Background – Hager was a steady backup and special teams player for the Rams, but a 2019 injury to projected starter Micah Kiser forced the Rams to promote Hager. He too fell to injury after just five games in 2019.

Strengths – A solid contributor to special teams, and backup inside linebacker. He is a solid roster player but has not shown the ability to start for an extended period at the NFL level.

Weaknesses – Hager’s niche is special teams, where he needn’t process the play in front of him. He is a serviceable backup linebacker

Team Impact – A solid special team player with backup capacity, a linebacker role for a 3-4 defense featuring linebackers. Rams will expect more production or cheap price to retain his role in the future.

Estimated market value – Not known in a large circle in the NFL.  Hager would be welcomed back to the LA Rams at the right price. Perhaps a four-year deal at $3-4 million.

Projected team action – Likely will allow Hager to test free agency. If he hasn’t gotten competitive offers, he will likely be back to Rams for a four-year deal at $3 million.

Most likely team to sign him – Watch for Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, or Philadelphia Eagles to enter bidding when his price drops below $1 million/year.