Sunday, February 28, 2010
INDIANAPOLIS -- With rumors flying regarding the future of Rams quarterback Marc Bulger, the situation remains fluid.
One report on espn.com said Bulger could be released prior to next Friday (March 5), the start of the new league year, and listed several teams where Bulger might land, including the Jets and Lions. The latter is very unlikely considering the poor relationship that existed when Detroit offensive coordinator Scott Linehan was head coach of the Rams.
Globe-Democrat.com has learned there are talks occurring between the Rams and Bulger’s agents to decide his fate sooner rather than later. There is no urgency to make a move prior to March 5 because there are no salary-cap implications to having Bulger on or off the roster. His salary for 2010 is $8.5 million.
Because no trade can be consummated until March 5, the Rams would only release him prior to that date if they have exhausted all potential efforts to deal him. While a trade can’t be official until Friday, teams can have deals in place prior to then. Any team looking to trade for Bulger would likely be looking for him to accept a pay cut.
Coach Steve Spagnuolo said Saturday that even though the Rams’ offseason program begins March 15, it’s not necessary that a decision on Bulger be made by then.
However, it also makes sense that his status not linger too long into the offseason.
Decisions on Tenders
Eight players who are exclusive rights free agents have been tendered by the team. Those players with less than three years of experience are not permitted to negotiate with other teams. The tenders are for the minimum salary for the player’s experience.
Those with one credited season and who received a tender of $395,000 were defensive end C.J. Ah You, tackle Ryan McKee and safety David Roach.
Two-year players cornerback Quincy Butler, running back Kenneth Darby, linebackers Larry Grant and David Vobora and wide receiver Jordan Kent were tendered at $470,000.
Spags on Khan
Asked his impressions of proposed new owner Shahid Khan from Tuesday’s meeting, Spagnuolo said, “He was very impressive, very intelligent and you can see how passionate he is about the Rams.”
Spags on Jackson
Spagnuolo said he saw running back Steven Jackson last week and that Jackson met with new trainer Reggie Scott.
“He seems to be doing fine,” Spagnuolo said. “I mean backs, you know how they are. But he's been fine. I don't even put him in the rehab category because it's really just a rest (thing). He's been resting (his back). He told me he's doing fine."
Comments
cgsuddeath (anonymous) says...
Another rumor about Bulger just like all the stupid rumors about Jackson,Vick and now Bradford.Things must be really slow.You guys need to stop creating news.
February 28, 2010 at 12:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rrains (Rob Rains) says...
When I am told there are discussions between the Rams and Bulger's agents, that will be reported. That's not creating news. This is from Howard, not Rob.
February 28, 2010 at 11:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )