The return of LA Rams ILB Travin Howard is kind of a big deal

The little steps of the LA Rams sometimes build a much bigger and better roster. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why the tactics of Rams GM Les Snead have been so intriguing over the years. Others turn to his blockbuster trades and his headliner free agency signings. But those are splash moves that could be replicated by Dallas Cowboys team owner/general manager Jerry Jones.

I admire the little tweaks, the moves that seldom find their way to the feature story of the NFL Network, but eventually and ultimately contribute to the team’s uncanny string of never playing a losing season under head coach Sean McVay.

Moves like re-signing inside linebacker Travin Howard for another year is the latest example. Those are the moves that too many ignore. But this extension is kind of a big deal for the team. The LA Rams may have added All-Pro veteran inside linebacker Bobby Wagner to the team’s roster, but he will need to get a rest at some point during the game. Now, the Rams have a solid backup for the position and a key contributor to helping on special teams coverage as well.

It’s a one-year deal for Howard. And it gives the Rams a much better depth at a position on defense that continues to grow in value for DC Raheem Morris.

You may recall the play that sealed the victory in the NFC Championship round of the NFL Playoffs, right? None other than a heads-up play by inside linebacker Travin Howard, who was in the right place at the right time to put an end to the San Francisco 49ers.

The team may add stars to the roster. But without balancing their budget by signing inexpensive contributors in the final grading of the Rams’ free agency actions, the team is simply top-heavy. To correct that, the front office spends significant amounts of time adding complementary players throughout the roster.

Travin Howard may not make the Pro Bowl in 2022. But bringing him back this year is really kind of a big deal. He does not shy away from big moments. In fact, he’s already made the highlight reel in the playoffs last year. Now the Rams can rest assured that if and when they make the NFL Playoffs in 2022, they already have another veteran playmaker at ILB.