Should Rams Sign Former All-Pro LB Eric Kendricks?

With a need at linebacker following the release of Bobby Wagner, this is a move that could make sense for the Rams.

Life comes at you fast in the NFL, and the Los Angeles Rams learned that the hard way as they are fresh off a 5-12 season despite winning the Super Bowl the year prior.

Now, they're looking to trade receiver Allen Robinson and outside linebacker Leonard Floyd as well as trade rumors swirling around star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Based on those moves alone, it might appear that they are fully blowing it up and committing to a rebuild.

While that may be the case, it is more likely they're doing what they can to free up cap space. Once they free up enough cap space, Andrew Buller-Buss of SportsNaut lists the Rams as a potential landing spot for free-agent linebacker Eric Kendricks. 

Just because the Minnesota Vikings decided to move on from Kendricks after eight seasons, it doesn’t mean he can’t still play at a high level. He’s led the team in tackles each of the past two seasons while typically providing above-average coverage from a middle linebacker. In Minnesota’s case, they wanted the $9.5 million in cap savings his release provided.

In his last two seasons as a Viking, Kendricks recorded 280 total tackles, with six sacks. He also snagged two interceptions and recovered two fumbles, one of which he returned for a touchdown. 

After the release of All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner, the Rams do have a hole to fill at the position which could allow Kendricks to step into a starting role should he sign with the Rams.

Of course, the contract would have to make sense for a Rams team that doesn't want to hamper a potential rebuild down the road. If they could bring him on a deal that benefits both parties, though, signing Kendricks could be a beneficial move once free agency opens. 

---

You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rams? Click Here

Want to join in on the discussion? Click here to become a member of the Ram Digest message board community today!

Follow Ram Digest on Twitter and Facebook.

Want even more L.A. Rams news? Check out the SI.com team page here.