LA Rams and minor money matters may mean . . . ?

Okay, after wading in and out of the latest LA Rams rumors, we think we have clarified the status of LA Rams retired offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth and the Rams rumors that are going viral, suggesting that he is in line to sign on with the Dallas Cowboys. That fictional narrative is even getting press coverage from some sites that should know better. So you might think we’d have had our fill of fictional narratives. Well, we most certainly have.

But there is a distinction between creative writing about what is happening, and the ability to see a trail of bread crumbs from some minor actions taken by the LA Rams. But minor actions from the Rams, particularly when it is financial in nature, are sure indications of bigger things to come.

So what minor under-the-radar action are we talking about? Per The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue, The Rams’ front office just freed up about $2 million in salary cap space. So what?

Well, the LA Rams typically free up cap space to ensure sufficient salary cap space for any anticipated Rams free agency signings or potential trades that may be in the works.

LA Rams free agency signing or trade imminent?

We know that the LA Rams have suffered unexpected injuries along the offensive line, at running back, and at wide receiver. While the Rams appear to be quite deep at their wide receiver position, the Rams free agency interest may be targeting signing either a running back or an offensive lineman before the season starts.  And, of course, there is the option to trade for a depth player who could shore up the Rams’ depth chart at a reasonable cost.

It was about this time in 2021 that the LA Rams traded for New England Patriots RB Sony Michel. And it was Michel’s ability to carry the team for several games by putting up 100+ yards on the ground that propelled the team into the NFL playoffs. Are the Rams revisiting that tactic this year? Well, to do so, the team would need to free up about $2 million.

And as we’ve just learned, the Rams front office has just accomplished that.