Wednesday afternoon, Rams general manager Les Snead held a video conference with reporters to discuss the team's strategies for free agency and the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
He explained the Rams have been in 'constant communication' with offensive lineman Coleman Shelton's camp, but he is expected to hit the free market. Snead mentioned that Shelton decided to void his last year, making him an unrestricted free agent.
"I would say most players get to this point where, 'Okay, the season's over,' they're in the last year of their contract, there is a side of the process where to help figure out the market, is somewhat going to the marketplace," Snead said. "But when you go to the market, then it's 31 other teams involved, and then you can use it to come up with a win-win."
Rams coach Sean McVay mentioned last week that the Rams are actively pursuing an extension for Shelton.
“We’re proactively trying to get that sorted out,” said McVay. “He’s a player we want to continue with moving forward.”
Earlier this month, the Rams parted ways with former starter Brian Allen, releasing him from his backup center position. This move resulted in approximately $5 million in cap space savings for the team in 2024.
With around $40 million in cap space entering the new league year, the Rams are also considering allocating some of these funds toward their draft class.
Snead acknowledged the players' preference to assess their market value before engaging in more detailed negotiations with the Rams.
“Sometimes you have to exercise patience in this process, which I believe is beneficial for both parties,” Snead remarked. “You can't rush through free agency; it's more like cooking in the oven than using a microwave.”
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