5 NFL FA centers for the LA Rams to keep an eye on

Option IV

Okay, we’re out of the sub-compact section and moving up into the mid-size category. Now we have a few of the bells and whistles, and a little more space to become a bit more comfortable. For this option, we’re looking at former San Francisco 49ers offensive center Ben Garland.

Garland has been a bit of a nomad, having played for the Denver Broncos, the Atlanta Falcons, and finally the rival San Francisco 49ers. He has been a spot starter in each of the last four NFL seasons, peaking with five NFL starts in 2020 for the 49ers.

The 6-foot-5 308-pound Garland was signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He made the rounds on their practice squad for a few seasons before getting promoted to the 53-man roster.  From that point on, he has been a solid backup who has seen action. But he has not been able to earn a starting spot.

That’s just fine for the Rams because that is exactly the role currently needing to be filled. Garland knows the NFC West well, has faced common opponents that the Rams face this year. And with his 49ers experience, he will have added insight and value by allowing the Rams to peer into their rival’s offensive game-planning against the Rams. Garland can give the Rams a solid first half to the 2021 NFL season, long enough for the Rams to develop his replacement.