3 Moves That Prove the Rams Won Free Agency

Then, once those current deals expire, the expiration runs concurrent with the massive extensions for the 2023 class and others when those are to be paid out at their highest point.

Matthew Stafford , Davante Adams, and several more massive contracts will be paid out either in full or with some dead cap via void years, giving the Rams the financial freedom to maintain their roster long-term, while setting themselves up to dominate this season.

2. Filling Up for the Present Fight Without Leveraging the Future

There are two types of capital in the NFL. Salary cap and draft capital. As discussed above, the financial picture makes sense for the franchise, based on how they structured deals. Plus, Stan Kroenke's enormous wealth allows the Rams to adjust contracts in order to make the books work.

The salary cap isn't cash, it's accounting. A major part of an NFL accountant's work and for a front office's ability to succeed is rookie salaries. A four-year prorated deal that greatly benefits teams because they can get All-Pro talent at a fraction of the cost.

In their moves, the Rams kept a first-round pick, used another first on an All-Pro corner, kept their 2027 first, retained their 2026 day two picks, and their 2027 second round selection. The Rams have a loaded roster and the picks to maintain success down the road.

Now the Rams could draft players or have enough for a midseason trade. Once again, the two Super Bowl trips under Sean McVay were spurred on by midseason moves for Dante Fowler Jr and Von Miller.

3. The Rams Did Not Lose a Critical Player This Season

Yes, the Rams did say goodbye to several players, including Cobie Durant and Jake McQuaide, but kept Kam Curl and Tyler Higbee. Essentially, the entire offense, defense, and Special Teams were retained except for critical positions and in all those positions, the Rams invested over $170 million into them. Smart business.