LA Rams: Six under-the-radar offensive free agents

Offensive center

Jacksonville Jaguars offensive center Tyler Shatley may not be a name that you recognize, but isn’t that what this is all about? He was an undrafted free agent signing by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2014 and has been with the team in a bit of a relief/backup role ever since. He’s appeared in 94 games and started in 25 of those contests. Despite the rotational role, he’s played a relatively penalty-free career so far.

He had a good year in 2020, starting 10 of 16 games for the Jaguars. And that is off of a one-year $1.5 million deal. Per Pro Football Focus, Shatley allowed two sacks on route to a grade of 67.7 for the season. For comparison’s sake that score is nearly identical to that of LA Rams center Austin Blythe.

Shatley will not command as high of a contract price as Blythe, perhaps more than $2 million less, with nearly the same level of performance. In fact, Shatley’s name has come up for the Rams before, and his ability to cover all offensive line positions was a strong reason to give him an audition.

The Rams would do nicely by adding the 6-foot-3 310-pound center. Even if the team brings back ERFA Coleman Shelton, the Rams would have vigorous competition at all offensive line positions. With the new offensive line coach Kevin Carberry, choices are a good thing.