5 steps to free up $80 Million in LA Rams 2021 NFL salary cap

Step three – Cut Andrew Whitworth

Nothing the LA Rams can do this offseason will hurt as much as what I am about to say that they must do.  The team should cut offensive left tackle, Andrew Whitworth. And despite what anyone says in the comments section, nobody can feel worse about this action than myself. But, it’s time.

Andrew Whitworth is 40 years old, just had one of the most incredible seasons of his NFL career, and pushed himself so hard that he returned from an MCL injury to his knee to return to play in the NFL Playoffs in just eight weeks.  But honestly, his performance in the playoffs was off the charts for a morale boost. It wasn’t his best work of the season by any means.

Whitworth is interested in coming back. His Pro Football Focus grade for 2020 was an outstanding 88.7.  How can he ever hope to top that? The truth to the matter is that neither he nor the LA Rams should expect him to. In fact, it is the perfect way for a distinguished veteran to call it a career. After all, the Rams learned that young Joseph Noteboom was up for the challenge. If the Rams cut Whitworth, they’ll save another $7 million in 2021 salary cap space.

Of course, Whitworth can always sign one with another NFL team. In the process, that team can predefine the role for Whitworth. If that role is as a backup and Whitworth signs on, all the better for both sides.  The Rams need to get younger on the offensive line, build a group now to carry them for the next four years.  I hate to say it, but it’s time to part ways. Whitworth was Jared Goff’s bodyguard.  The LA Rams need the money.

Aggregate 2021 Salary Cap Savings: ($28.3  million)