LA Rams never seem to re-sign former players. Why not?

Rams system depends on more output than input

As the LA Rams front office continues to work towards improving the roster, the parameters continue to change. New coaches arrive with new player specifications, and former players do not always measure up to the new bar set to be offered a contract.

Perhaps no position exemplifies that changing standard than the LA Rams inside linebacker position. Three years ago, the position was somewhat useful, but the coaching staff deemed that the role could be adequately filled with young raw players who could be coached up and into the role.

Two years ago, the position was valueless, and much of the Rams’ defensive scheme involved sliding in bigger defensive backs to afford a more versatile and deceptive look for pass coverage. One year ago, the team transitioned once more, seeking big-hitting linebackers who could stuff the run and defend the pass.

Rams keep on winning

As good as former ILB Cory Littleton was, he had moments where he struggled to stuff the run. The tale of the tape over OLB Dante Fowler Jr. was that he frequently sold out of setting the edge by crashing hard to get to the quarterback. He got his sacks, sure. But offenses got their yards too.

The Rams have not changed their pattern. Rather, the team has refined its approach to free agency, roster building, and managing its salary cap. By the results, I’d say that the team is onto something. The LA Rams are constantly looking to get better and seeking their next step to doing that.

The LA Rams never seem to re-sign former players. But based on the team’s track record, it has not seemed to hurt their success. In fact, the team has flourished over the past five years by not doing so.