Detroit wants to trade Stafford. Should the Rams offer Wolford and a 3rd round pick? We need someone who will challenge Goff.

How about this ‘what if’ scenario?

Rams sign FA Jon Feliciano (Bills C/G) with the intention of replacing Blythe at C. Feliciano probably would sign for around $5M according to estimates that I’ve read. He’s started and played well for the Bills this year.

But Creed Humphrey falls to them in the 2nd so they pounce. Now Creed is the starting C for ‘21.

Feliciano moves over to starting LG taking Edwards’ place.

Edwards moves to RT replacing Hav, largely solving Rams pass rush woes AND freeing TE’s up for more receiving assignments which certainly helps whoever is at QB. Cough, cough...

Hav, and his contract, is traded for a 4th or 5th to be used on Day 3 for another need or developmental depth at some position.

Rams upgrade 3 OL positions by the end of Round 2. That’s a threefer, isn’t it? And it only cost Rams a 2nd while gaining a 4th or 5th for Hav. That would be a helluva OL, huh?

It all seems within the realm of possibility, don’t you think?

Or, am I missing something obvious?

I'm 40, healthy like diet and exercise. No gym the last 2 weeks, stressful job especially in these times. The last month I've felt shooting and constant pain like 10 out of 10 in my hands, feet and overall body especially back. Honestly it's head to toe. My feet at times holy shit!!! I appreciate any input. I practically bathe in CBD it only does so much ya know Never had any conditions prior. I don't take my health for granted. But something isn't right. I waived health coverage this year because it was expensive and high deductible. Fuck! I don't think there is any treatment anyway. Thanks to anyone who replies!

Been going through our roster and contracts a little bit and have put together a list of trade possibilities. We have a lot of players who would be very desired on the market of course but for this what I am prioritizing are guys who have short duration left under contract (i.e. in their last year), represent roster redundancies, or are valuable to us potentially in some way via trade in terms of opening up cap space.

One thing I have not included in my logic here is board and fan favorite status. There are some below and I know many of you are going to lose your minds but that's nothing new.

Lastly these are sorted in terms of likelihood. And some of these are moves nobody wants but that doesn't mean we shouldn't take a look at the option and have an idea of the benefits and drawbacks.

1. RT Havenstein. This guy is a blue chip RT in the run game and he's got a lot of value considering that plus a contract that pays him $8M for the next two seasons. And as always the trade option that is easiest to pull off is for the guy you wouldn't want to trade. But in his case the Rams could use that cap room and I have reason to believe they could fill that RT role without too much dropoff. I mean this is why you draft and develop and Evans is just sitting there also Edwards may be able to lock down the right edge too. I feel like if they were to do this and also go get a FA addition for the middle (either C or G) the line as a whole is stronger. This is where drafting all those OTs with intent to move them inside may pay off. I think an OL of Whit / Edwards / FA / Corbett / Evans is better overall and the Rams would be positioned to take a tackle if one they like drops to them. Or even better would be Scherff at RG and a rookie at C but of course that is a pipe dream.

2. WR Kupp & WR Woods. We all knew the Rams would take care of Woody and I'm glad they did and all. But now we have over $27M tied up in two WRs who do the same thing, namely provide us with a possession option. Just below them on the roster they have the ex-rookie Jefferson who does have more of that deep speed we need, however let's be honest in recognizing that overall he also projects as a possession wideout. So the decision here is whether the team is better off by moving one of them and freeing up cap space by drafting a wideout to juice this wideout corps. Kupp's next three seasons are cap hits of $14M, $16M, and $15M and there's an out after the 2021 season which reduces risk for a team trading for him. Same thing with Woody at $13-14M over the next three seasons with an out after 2021. Both are plus players, Kupp is more impactful on tape but the injury risk makes up for that and both are nice trade pieces that will move quickly.

3. LT Noteboom. Boom probably has more value to us as a backup LT than he does in draft pick compensation so this is very unlikely. But he only has one year remaining and with the Rams poised to finally have a first round pick in 2022 (likely spot to address LT) the timing on things might lead the Rams to consider a move. It would also require Kromer to reaaaaally like his LT depth as much as he said he did (he talked up Evans and even Anchrum in that interview in 2020) but if that's true then all of a sudden it would make sense to cash in on Boom's value now.

4. QB Goff. This is extremely unlikely. But it is possible the Rams could move him if McVay wants to go in another direction. I don't think moving him prior to June 1st is an option for the Rams. Doing that comes with an overall 2021 cap hit of $10M as opposed to cap relief if they wait for June. Either way this would be a case of selling low which is what would bother me most about them doing it (Goff's value should be rebuilt behind a better OL first even if moving him is the plan) and if they move him to a team like Indy boy is there room to look stupid.

5. DT Donald. I almost didn't include this simply because of the replies I know are coming but then I did include this because of the replies I know are coming. Figure it might distract us for a while then we can go back to QB arguments eh? So this is the kind of thing the Rams probably wouldn't consider. But for me no player is untouchable at the right price and Donald's greatest value is right now. He is in his prime. He just won another DPOY award. His contract spikes this year at $27M cap hit but after this season it trends down nicely and has great value for a Hall of Fame player who is still in his HoF days and there's even an out after this season to protect the team making the trade. The trade value coming back would be enormous and enough to address LT or Edge and still have shots at upgrading or filling a position or two with starters. We have Robinson coming off a disappointing season but he looks rather fit and 3T is a good spot for him. Lastly for the record no way I do this however I think there is enough logic and reason to take a hard look at it.

From the Rams site. There are videos. It’s work reliving! Click link for videos.

Link

5) S Jordan Fuller's game-clinching interception vs. Buccaneers

4) CB Troy Hill's 20-yard fumble return for a touchdown vs. 49ers

3) LB Kenny Young's pick-six vs. Patriots

2) CB Troy Hill's 84-yard pick-six vs. Cardinals

1) CB Darious Williams' pick-six vs. Seahawks in wild card round of playoffs

For 7 certain states, bet a dollar, pay 10 on tonight's fight, you can win a 100 if your fighter makes it past round 1.

Sorry have issues posting links. But it comes from Yahoo.

Namely, AD will turn 30 next May.

Yeah, he’s still at the top of his game right now and his conditioning is without peer. But Father Time is undefeated.

My point? Isn’t it obvious?

Rams have been kinda fiddling and wasting invaluable prime AD seasons. Not on purpose, but still.

We still haven’t fixed Edge long term, in fact, we’ll probably lose the one good one that we have in Floyd.

Our ILB situation is kinda so-so, too.

Yeah, our D was statistically rated #1 last year, but it sure didn’t look like it against the Packers. Or 6 other teams during the regular season.

Our O has been regressing for 2 1/2 years right before our eyes. Big question mark at QB and our OL is merely ‘pretty good’ and only effective against mediocre teams.

Even McVay has been stumbling while trying to get his team up for each week’s opponent. I mean, losing to the Jets? C’mon...

Of course Snead/McVay are ‘trying’. But ‘trying’ isn’t good enough, dammit. They have to DO it and PDQ while the clock keeps ticking on a transcendent future HOF’er in AD.

It will be a travesty if AD never gets to raise at least one Lombardi. Sigh...

He goes a long way to solving our OL issues. He literally gave up one pressure not a sack this season.

Goff is a pocket passer and the interior of the line is crucial. The issue is if I was GB I would make him their #1 priority to resign. We must upgrade the line and he solves at least 50% of the problems.

Linsley and Scherff would get the Rams back up to 30+ ppg. I know, how do we swing both I have zero idea. But I know Goff will have all day to survey the field.

RamsOnDemand -

It has been an amazing and enjoyable 2020 season. We look forward to keeping that going through the Superbowl over the next few weeks.

This off-season, we have exciting plans for RamsOnDemand. Additional features launching soon as we approach a new league year. So... don’t drift too far away. Lots of football and off-season talk... plus we will work on some renovations together. We don’t expect the Rams to sit on their ass all off-season.... so we won’t either!

A chance to publicly thank sponsors for the 2020 funding as 100% of what we collect goes back into ROD keeping us fresh and ad-free.

I also want to use this moment to get out in front of something; Goff Threads

We want conversation and many topics at ROD. It’s what we do... talk about stuff. So, our desire is to allow topics to stand alone - always. At the same time, we need to be mindful of where topics go, and therefore expect a heavy merge of Goff related topics.

Again, our desire is to not merge anything. But we also do not want the same conversation going in multiple threads... and we want topics easy to find.

As moderators we will be doing our best, and I promise you it won’t be perfect. But with this notice, at least you know our intention.

I should add, this is our long-standing school of thought with topic management, not just with Goff Threads.

I close by adding a link to the Rams year end announcement from Kevin Demoff to fans.

Cheers to 2021!

CGI and your ROD administration team

AFC Championship Prediction and Preview: Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs

The last time the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs met in the AFC Championship Game, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen weren't even born. Instead, Hall of Famers Jim Kelly and Joe Montana were the starting quarterbacks as the Bills bested the Chiefs 30-13 on Jan. 23, 1994. Advancing easily, the AFC's pre-Patriots dynasty moved on to their fourth straight Super Bowl appearance — and loss.

Who would have believed back then the Bills were about to drop off the face of the NFL planet for a generation?

Indeed, it marked the end of an era for both teams; Montana's final game and the last gasp of a Bills regime charred by the losses that mattered most. It's the cross Allen and the 2021 version of this team has to bear, that 0-4 Super Bowl record as they seek the team's first-ever NFL championship. After a long run of futility, including an 18-year playoff drought and six straight last-place finishes in the AFC East, they're on the precipice of rising again.

To do it, the Bills face a daunting task: defeating top seed and defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City on the road. The Chiefs breezed through the regular season with a 14-2 record and boast the league's top-rated offense and a perennial NFL MVP quarterback in Mahomes. On paper, they haven't slowed down since February and remain every bit the favorite to earn back-to-back NFL titles for the first time in team history.

But the Chiefs have also shown some cracks in the armor in recent weeks. Mahomes left last week's game with a concussion but he announced on Friday that he's been cleared from protocol and will play on Sunday night. Their last two games playing the starters have been shaky, even at home: a 17-14 squeaker against the NFC-worst Atlanta Falcons, then a 22-17 nail-biter against the Cleveland Browns in last week's AFC Divisional Round. A very Browns-ian fumble out of the end zone and a gutsy fourth-quarter run, then fourth-down pass by backup quarterback Chad Henne were all that stood in the way of an upset. In their last nine games, they have just an 8-1 record despite only having a +15 point differential.

Can the Chiefs rediscover their mojo in time to snap the Bills' eight-game win streak? Or will Buffalo springboard past their rival again, 27 years later, to earn another shot at Super Bowl glory?

AFC Championship: Buffalo at Kansas City

Kickoff: Sunday, Jan. 24 at 6:40 p.m. ET
TV: CBS
Spread: Kansas City -3

Three Things to Watch

1. How effective will Patrick Mahomes be on Sunday?

Every member of Arrowhead Pride has held their breath since the 2018 NFL MVP was ruled out of the Browns game and entered the NFL's concussion protocol. Early signs were that he's recovering fine; Mahomes was a limited participant in Thursday's practice and was cleared to play as of Friday afternoon.

When questioned by the media, Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy gave a short, reassuring take: "Pat looks like Pat."

That's a strong (albeit biased) vote of confidence. Mahomes did have one of his best games of the year against the Bills during a 26-17 win in October, completing a season-high 80.8 percent of his passes while throwing two touchdowns to All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce. Mahomes' guaranteed presence is enough to move the needle at least a full point.

But a hampered Mahomes could prove problematic. And if Chad Henne is pushed into action? That turns this top-seeded team into an underdog. Yes, the 35-year-old journeyman had a late drive to remember, doing just enough to get the Chiefs over their shock and into the AFC Championship Game. But NFL memories can hinge on lucky breaks; an ugly interception on the previous drive gave the Browns a chance to win outright.

Henne has thrown for more interceptions (63) than touchdowns (60) in a career that didn't include any playoff experience until last week. Facing a red-hot Bills defense that torched reigning NFL MVP Lamar Jackson with a 101-yard pick-six seems a wee bit more difficult to maneuver past than the Browns. There will be a greater reliance on the run game Sunday (more on that shortly) but the dip in performance here is stark. Kelce along with wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins (questionable to play himself/calf) can't throw the ball to themselves, right?

The Chiefs need Mahomes to play a full 60 minutes.

2. Josh Allen vs. Chiefs defense

On the other side of the ball, perhaps no one (not even Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers) enters this weekend hotter than Josh Allen. Only Tom Brady has thrown for more yards than Allen's 530 thus far in the postseason; he's added another 57 on the ground. But perhaps the biggest stat is zero turnovers against two of the AFC's best takeaway defenses in the Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts.

Can Allen keep those good vibes going? On paper, the Chiefs' defense appears to be their weak point, but they were more than up to the task in October. That 26-17 defeat was arguably the worst game of Allen's year to date, throwing for a season-low 122 yards and completing just 51.9 percent of his passes. To be fair, a weird schedule that included just five days of rest left the Bills off-balance. But it's a loss Allen won't soon forget as the Bills have an opportunity to even the score.

"They showed a couple of different things on defense, stuff we weren't expecting," Allen explained this week. "[It came down to] just not being as accurate with the ball as I should have been.

"I think we've gotten a lot better since that game — they'd probably say the same thing. So it's good teams that are going to go out and compete, and it's going to be a four-quarter dogfight."

Allen needs continued, top-tier production from All-Pro wideout Stefon Diggs to lead the way. Diggs has an NFL-best 14 catches, 234 receiving yards and two touchdowns in the postseason; he's been virtually uncoverable even with other pass catchers lagging (both Cole Beasley and John Brown were held without a catch in at least one playoff game). Against the Chiefs the first time, Diggs was held in check for only 46 receiving yards. That'll be enough to make the difference Sunday for a Bills team that still is struggling to diversify.

3. Both rushing attacks

Ball control on the ground is the x-factor in a game where so much of the primary focus revolves around the two quarterbacks. Back in October, the Chiefs posted 245 rushing yards, the most in any game since Mahomes took over as the starter in 2017. It was also the most rushing plays (46) put forth by an Andy Reid-led team since he took over as the Chiefs head coach back in 2013.

What do you think this team will try and do with Mahomes likely less than 100 percent?

In the first meeting against the Bills, Kansas City leaned heavily on rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who gashed Buffalo for 161 rushing yards as the Chiefs won the time of possession battle by more than 15 minutes. The first-round pick hasn't played since suffering an ankle injury in Week 15 and was still limited in practice as of Thursday, so he's just as big a name to watch as Mahomes.

The Bills, on the other side, need to give Allen some cover with some semblance of a run game. Against the Ravens, they earned just a single first down out of 17 on the ground and wound up with just 32 rushing yards overall. When your quarterback has nearly outrushed the entire team, you know you're in trouble.

Zack Moss is hurt and out for the rest of the playoffs, so Devin Singletary is the lone Bills back with experience. He's got to find a way to stay involved after posting just 46 yards on 10 carries thus far.

"If they play man [defense]," Allen added, "We have to win our matchups outside, get our run game established, and play really good complementary football."

Final Analysis

The Chiefs' home-field advantage is one of the strongest in the NFL and the crowd will be large (17,000) despite COVID-19 restrictions. The problem is, we don't know what to expect from Patrick Mahomes after suffering the concussion last week and Kansas City will face a Bills team that's played clean on offense, posted big plays on defense, and learned how to manage a game from start to finish.

This one will be close. But even if Mahomes returns at near full strength, the Bills appear to have a special mojo this year as they look to put a 27-year Super Bowl drought behind them.

Prediction: Bills 27, Chiefs 24

NFC Championship Prediction and Preview: Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Green Bay Packers

The NFL's Championship Sunday will kick off with the Green Bay Packers hosting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Championship Game. At the forefront of this compelling matchup are two of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game.

Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers will go head-to-head for just the fourth time ever on Sunday (Brady leads 2-1). But the stakes will be much higher this time around in the first-ever playoff matchup between these future Hall of Famers. The intrigue also goes beyond Brady and Rodgers, as the two hottest teams in the NFC square off at frigid Lambeau Field with a trip to Super Bowl LV on the line. Who will be crowned NFC champions on Sunday in the playoff edition of the "Battle of the Bays?"

The Buccaneers (13-5) will be making their first appearance in the NFC title game since 2002, the same year that the franchise won its one and only Super Bowl. Following an 11-5 regular season that culminated in a second-place finish in the NFC South, Tampa Bay entered the postseason as a No. 5 seed. The Buccaneers proceeded to take care of business in the Wild Card Round with a 31-23 road win over Washington. That victory propelled the Bucs into last week's Divisional Round, where they would find redemption against a New Orleans team that had beaten them convincingly in each of their two regular-season meetings. Tampa Bay forced four turnovers and shut down Drew Brees and the Saints' offense on the way to a 30-20 victory.

Bruce Arians and his Buccaneers come to frigid Green Bay riding a six-game win streak, looking to become just the fifth team ever to win three consecutive road games to advance to the Super Bowl. If successful, they will become the first team in NFL history to play a Super Bowl in their home stadium.

The Packers (14-3) secured the top seed in the NFC with a conference-best 13-3 regular-season record, earning them an opening bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. That seemed to pay dividends for the well-rested Packers last week in the Divisional Round, as they racked up 484 yards of total offense against the Rams' top-ranked defense to come away with a 32-18 victory to advance to their second NFC title game in as many years. A challenging matchup now awaits second-year head coach Matt LaFleur and his Packers, who must face a Buccaneers team that handed them their worst defeat of the season, a 38-10 beatdown in Tampa Bay back in Week 6.

Tampa Bay's dominance in that contest was palpable, giving the underdog Buccaneers plenty of reason to be confident heading into the NFC title game. But you'd be ill-advised to mention that to Arians, who has no intention of letting his team underestimate the red-hot Packers based on something that happened in October.

"It's the same thing as the Saints last week, having beaten us twice, pretty badly once, and we won that ballgame," Arians said earlier this week. "You can't fall into that trap of what happened last time. They're a much, much better football team, we're a much better football team. They're different right now. So, you'd better take care of today's work."

Arians is correct — this is not the same Green Bay squad that the Buccaneers pummeled back in October. The Packers have won seven in a row and feature the No. 1 scoring offense in the league (31.8 ppg). And unlike the Week 6 meeting, the Packers have the luxury of playing at home on Sunday, where they have lost just once in nine games. Can Green Bay claim its first NFC championship since 2011 and exact a little revenge in the process?

Sunday's NFC Championship Game will mark the 57th meeting all-time between the Buccaneers and Packers. The Packers lead the series 33-22-1 overall and won the only previous postseason matchup, a 21-7 victory at home in the Divisional Round of the 1997-98 playoffs. That Green Bay team, led by head coach Mike Holmgren and quarterback Brett Favre, went on to Super Bowl XXXII where the Packers lost to Denver 31-24.

NFC Championship Game: Tampa Bay at Green Bay

Kickoff: Sunday, Jan. 24 at 3:05 p.m. ET
TV: FOX
Spread: Packers -3.5

Three Things to Watch

1. The Green Bay passing game vs. Tampa Bay's pass defense

It's been a remarkable season for Green Bay's high-octane passing attack. Aaron Rodgers earned first-team All-Pro honors for his efforts — completing 70.7 percent of his pass attempts for 4,299 yards. The NFL MVP favorite also tossed a league-best 48 touchdown passes against just five interceptions and posted a 121.5 passer rating — the second-highest single-season mark in NFL history. But he couldn't have done it without the help of first-team All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, who set a single-season franchise record with 115 receptions and an NFL-leading 18 touchdowns. Adams also racked up 1,374 receiving yards despite missing two whole games and parts of others.

That success has translated into the postseason, where Rodgers lit up the Rams' top-ranked pass defense last week to the tune of 296 passing yards, two touchdowns (also ran one in), no interceptions, and a 108.1 passer rating. Adams also found success against the Rams, hauling in nine catches for 66 yards and a score in his high-profile matchup against fellow All-Pro, cornerback Jalen Ramsey. And the banged-up Green Bay offensive line did a phenomenal job containing the Rams' vaunted pass rush, allowing zero sacks.

Rodgers and Co. have carved up just about every pass defense put in front of them this season, but there was one glaring exception. Back in October, Tampa Bay held Rodgers to just 160 passing yards, a season-low 45.7 completion rate, and a season-low 35.4 passer rating. It was the only game during the regular season in which Rodgers did not throw a touchdown pass. And it was one of just three games all season in which Adams was held out of the end zone. Rodgers also was picked off twice, sacked five times, and took 13 quarterback hits in the loss.

The scary part is that the Tampa Bay pass defense shut down Drew Brees and the Saints' high-powered passing attack in a similar fashion just last week. Brees threw for just 160 yards and one touchdown while getting picked off three times en route to a dismal 38.1 passer rating. That doesn't exactly bode well for Rodgers and a Green Bay passing game that has already seen what this defense is capable of when it is performing at its best. That being said, the Buccaneers haven't been the model of consistency when it comes to defending the pass — ranking just 21st during the regular season in that regard. And it will be a very tall order to shut down Rodgers and his weapons a second time, especially in the friendly confines of Lambeau Field.

2. Buccaneers passing game vs. Packers pass defense

Tom Brady has enjoyed great success in his first year in a Buccaneer uniform. In addition to leading Tampa Bay to its first trip into the postseason since 2007, Brady has put up some of his best numbers in years — completing 65.7 percent of passes for 4,633 yards with 40 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He has been particularly hot over his last five contests (including two playoff starts) — racking up 14 touchdown passes with just one interception while averaging a ridiculous 343.4 passing yards per game during that span. Brady also has made great use of an elite group of weapons — headlined by star wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, along with favorite target Rob Gronkowski and fellow tight end Cameron Brate. Brady won't have Antonio Brown, however, as he has been ruled out because of a knee injury.

Brady and Co. will be paired against a Green Bay pass defense that ranked seventh in the NFL during the regular season, allowing 221.2 passing yards per game. The Packers looked even better in their postseason debut last week against the Rams, limiting Jared Goff to 148 net passing yards and one touchdown. A Packers' pass rush that generated 41 sacks during the regular season, led by second-team All-Pro edge rusher Za'Darius Smith (13.5 sacks), did its part against the Rams, producing four sacks and seven QB hits. That sets up an intriguing matchup in the trenches on Sunday against a Tampa Bay offensive line that allowed 22 sacks (fourth-fewest in the NFL) during the regular season and surrendered none against the Packers back in Week 6.

Despite the stellar pass protection and lopsided score in that matchup, Brady's performance wasn't spectacular. But he was quite efficient — completing 17-of-27 pass attempts for 166 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. Brady will likely need better numbers to give his team the best chance to come out on top in freezing Green Bay on Sunday. However, if anyone can make that happen, it's Brady. He's not only the greatest postseason quarterback in NFL history, but he's also one of the best cold-weather signal-callers to ever play the game.

3. Jones vs. Jones

Green Bay's Aaron Jones put together a strong regular-season campaign, averaging 5.5 yards per carry on his way to 1,104 total rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He also put up solid numbers in the passing game with 47 receptions for 355 yards and a pair of scores. However, Jones struggled mightily against the Buccaneers in their Week 6 matchup, producing a season-low 15 rushing yards on 10 attempts. And he will have his work cut out for him again on Sunday against a Tampa Bay run defense that allowed just 80.6 rushing yards per game and 3.6 yards per carry during the regular season (No. 1 in the NFL).

However, hope is not completely lost for Green Bay's star running back on Sunday. He does bring some momentum into the NFC title game after making easy work of a stout Rams run defense last week finishing with 99 yards and a touchdown while averaging 7.7 yards per carry. And he will have plenty of help in the backfield from Jamaal Williams and AJ Dillon, as the Packers rumbled for a total of 188 yards on the ground in their Divisional Round victory.

Despite Tampa Bay's overall lack of success running the football during the regular season (28th in the NFL at 94.9 ypg), Ronald Jones II averaged 5.1 yards per carry and compiled close to 1,000 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in just 14 games. And one of his best performances happened to come in the big win against the Packers on Oct. 18. Jones ran for 113 yards and two scores in the Week 6 matchup. He could find similar success against the Packers' 13th-ranked run defense on Sunday. Green Bay also will have to contend with Leonard Fournette, who has filled in admirably during the playoffs with Jones working his way back from a quad injury.

Final Analysis

It’s difficult to dismiss the 38-10 throttling that the Buccaneers laid on the Packers during the regular season. You add in the greatest postseason quarterback in NFL history, surrounded by a standout supporting cast on both sides of the football, and it's hard not to like the Buccaneers' chances to pull off the upset on Sunday. However, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers have been playing on a different level during their current seven-game win streak. And it will be incredibly difficult for the Buccaneers to replicate the success they had against the Packers back in October. Green Bay also has home-field advantage this time around, and the Packers should gain an even bigger edge with a forecast that is calling for snow and temperatures in the 20s — a far cry from sunny Tampa Bay. This one could truly go either way, but the Packers look like the team to beat on Sunday. Green Bay squeaks out a narrow victory to advance to Super Bowl LV.

Prediction: Packers 28, Buccaneers 27

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If you're into UFC, a casual fan, or a McGregor fan this is a good event to watch!

UFC 257: Connor McGregor versus Dustin Poirier 2

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MVP, Most Improved & more: 2020 Rams End of Season Awards

Barely a week since the season came to a close and already so much has changed for the Los Angeles Rams.

Brandon Staley was hired away, and Raheem Morris was selected to replace him as defensive coordinator.

Sean McVay also made a switch on special teams, bringing in Joe DeCamillis to revamp what is traditionally a difference-making phase of the Rams organization.

And even the quarterback depth chart for 2021 is subject to further review.

But before we get too deep into the offseason and all the roster renovation that NFL teams tackle each new year, let's reflect back on what was a successful campaign, on and off the field, by acknowledging some individual standouts.

Here are my 2020 awards for the Rams.

Most Valuable Player: Aaron Donald

With him, it felt like the Rams could conquer just about any challenge. Without his best in Green Bay, against the most prolific offense in the NFL, the void felt cavernous.

The top defense in the league was able to play with light boxes and wreak havoc rushing four for much of the year, because Donald is a one-man blitz.

If not for his unprecedented 2018, this season might be regarded as his best yet. But it's not just what Donald does individually, it's the way he elevates those around him.

Nothing against Dante Fowler, but after a career-high 11.5 sacks last season playing next to the best defensive player on the planet, he collected a career-low three sacks in Atlanta in 2020.

Six of Donald's teammates this year had at least that many – (six!) – including the likes of Leonard Floyd and Morgan Fox, who will benefit in free agency, just as Fowler did.

Offensive Player of the Year: Cooper Kupp

This was the category I struggled with most. It wasn't a banner year on offense.

The line improved immensely, but their standout was Andrew Whitworth, who was injured in Week 10.

Darrell Henderson was one of the league's top backs in the first half of the season, but those games feel like years ago. Cam Akers was tremendous down the stretch, but prior to his first NFL touchdown at Tampa Bay was hardly a factor statistically.

Ultimately, it came down to Kupp or Robert Woods, and I'd have been perfectly fine choosing second between them.

I settled on Kupp in large part because of what he did as a run blocker this year. Sure, he had his highlight moments: the 55-yarder to beat the Giants and the 44-yard snag in the Wild Card win come to mind immediately. But the way he created for Rams running backs throughout the year was critical to the offense's efficiency. No receiver (minimum 120 run-blocking snaps) graded higher in that PFF metric.

Again, I wouldn't argue with a career-high eight touchdowns for Woods, plus another in the playoffs.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jordan Fuller

Unfortunately for L.A., this was the simplest selection due to lack of competition.

Classmates Terrell Lewis and Terrell Burgess had their debut campaigns derailed by injury. But that shouldn't take anything away from Fuller's accomplishment.

The 17th safety drafted in 2020, Fuller emerged from training camp as an unquestioned starter. Fighting through an early-season injury of his own, he returned from injured reserve to intercept Tom Brady twice on Monday Night Football and finish the year with three picks as well as a top-40 PFF grade at his position.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Cam Akers

"I imagine Cam Akers is going to be a leader of this football team quickly," team captain and 39-year-old Andrew Whitworth said following the Rams elimination in Green Bay.

It's hard to think of higher praise for a rookie running back.

Akers played well, he played hurt, and at times when his unit seemed handcuffed, he unlocked the offense. He and fellow rookie Van Jefferson saved their best for last, one of many reasons for optimism heading into 2021.

Most Improved Player: Sebastian Joseph-Day

Austin Corbett was plenty deserving here, but since the defense outperformed the offense, I opted for Joseph-Day.

Not only is he one of the most likeable personalities on the roster, but his career arc is the kind you can't help but celebrate.

After a "redshirt year" in 2018, Joseph-Day broke into the lineup as a rotational piece for Wade Phillips in 2019 – after the team drafted Greg Gaines to compete for his gig.

Then in 2020, the Rams brought in a former top-50 pick, A'Shawn Robinson. Plus, when his deal fell through in Baltimore, Michael Brockers returned to the position group that prides itself on Dawgwork.

Instead of getting lost in the shuffle, Joseph-Day became a household name for Rams fans and a known commodity around the NFL, as well. On a star-studded defense, only these players finished with higher PFF grades: Donald, John Johnson III, Darious Williams, and Ramsey.

After a season like that, we'll gladly take his nickname guidance under advisement.

Comeback Player of the Year: Rob Havenstein

The Rams right tackle responded from an injury-plagued season and a career-low PFF grade in 2019 to play a career-high in snaps and rank 18th among offensive tackles in 2020.

The offensive line's resurgence mirrored that of his own. Collectively, they were a bright spot.

Mid-Season Addition of the Year: Matt Gay

His success was so refreshing, we had to create a new category to honor him.

Gay connected on his final 13 field goal tries, including a perfect 4-for-4 mark in his first postseason. He was spotless on extra points and 80 percent of his kickoffs resulted in touchbacks.

A raw nerve for the first half of the season, placekicker suddenly became a weapon again for Los Angeles just in time for their playoff push.

Still relatively new to his chosen profession, there seems to be plenty of upside in Gay's game. He's got the potential to be a fixture on special teams for the indefinite future.

Last year at this time, we were wondering what the Rams were going to do about two key defensive starters, Corey Littleton and Dante Fowler, both of whom were UFAs.

The concern seemed significant. Littleton was the team's leading tackler with 134 stops, and also contributed 9 PDs, 2 FFs, 4 FRs, 2 INTs, and 3.5 sacks. Fowler was "Robin" to Aaron Donald's "Batman" as a pass rusher, with 11.5 sacks, 16 QB hits, and 2 FFs.

In the end, the Rams chose to retain neither, allowing Littleton to sign with the Raiders, while Fowler signed with the Falcons.

And its not as though the Rams brought in "sure things" to replace them. For Littleton's spot, the Rams penciled in Micah Kiser, an untested mid-round pick. At edge rusher, the Rams took a flyer on Leonard Floyd, who had averaged less than 5 sacks/year in his first four seasons.

The result, of course, was great. The Rams didn't miss a beat and, in fact, improved on defense in pretty much every category. Meanwhile, both Littleton and Fowler now appear overpaid.

So here we are, a year later, with a similar dilemma: do we re-sign (assuming we can find sufficient $ to do so) John Johnson and/or Leonard Floyd.

Perhaps history is repeating itself. Perhaps the best move is to save our money (maybe use what we have on the OL) and to trust that we can find another edge who can excel with Donald taking up multiple blockers, and a safety (who may already be on the roster) who can be effective with Jalen Ramsey locking down top WRs each week.

The bar has been set at a high level for the defense but, perhaps, a "next man up" approach is the most prudent. Or, is it possible that financially prompted attrition will finally catch up with the defense and, if JJ and Floyd to leave, we'll see it take a big step backwards?

I don't know the answer. Hopefully, Sean McVay, Les Snead and Raheem Morris get this one right.

Former Green Bay GM. Just heard the news that he died.

Just heard that Hank Aaron passed away today.

I remember the day he broke Ruth's record.

Another sad day for the sports world.

Teams set to much look different in 2021

Salute to the Cleveland Browns for breaking a 17-year streak atop the overhaul tiers list.

If the Browns can win 11 regular-season games and follow it up with a road playoff win, there's hope for the six franchises hiring a new head coach and the teams without a clear-cut answer at quarterback and the teams with a flat-out bad defense.

Now that the season is over for most, this is the time of year for buzzwords such as culture, cohesion, chemistry and synergy. The teams that don't have to use these terms are still playing. The teams that do simply need better coaches or players.

But nonetheless, the overhaul tiers are ready -- well-stocked with offseason priorities for each to get better over the next six months.

Slowly rebuild what has been torn down

Jacksonville Jaguars

2020 record: 1-15
Average age of starters in 2020: 26
Projected 2021 cap space: $76,227,279
Big-ticket free agent: Cam Robinson
Low-key important free agent: Sidney Jones

Priorities this offseason: Go all-in now. Use the more than $75 million in cap space and those 10 draft picks (including two first-rounders) to approach fringe contention sooner than later. After 44 regular-season wins over the past decade, try anything.

"They have a chance to get good in a hurry," one NFL personnel man said. "Might not be 2021, but in the next two years, for sure."

This team has bigger problems than quarterback, which will be solved by selecting Trevor Lawrence No. 1 overall. It needs upgrades all over. The offensive line is a strength, so re-signing Robinson to shore up the left tackle spot makes sense. Linebacker and running back are solid. But most spots simply aren't good enough. Replenish everything, and let new coach Urban Meyer foster the talent.

New York Jets

2020 record: 2-14
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.1
Projected 2021 cap space: $69,385,570
Big-ticket free agent: Marcus Maye
Low-key important free agent: Breshad Perriman

Priorities this offseason: Make sure that new coach Robert Saleh develops a strong relationship with general manager Joe Douglas. Those two must coexist harmoniously. Draft the quarterback of the future at No. 2 overall, then decide if trading Sam Darnold for a midround pick is worth it. Otherwise, keep Darnold one more year to see what he has. Upgrade the playmaker and defensive back spots through the draft.

"Really, they had enough talent to be a five- to six-win team this [past year] if they stayed healthy," an AFC scout said. "That's probably where they should have been. It's a rebuild, but there's talent there."

New coach taking control

Atlanta Falcons

2020 record: 4-12
Average age of roster in 2020: 27.2
Projected 2021 cap space: -$37,388,614
Big-ticket free agent: Todd Gurley II
Low-key important free agent: Damontae Kazee

Priorities this offseason: The roster isn't good enough to justify that looming cap deficit. Restructure contracts of star players recently extended, such as Grady Jarrett ($20.83 million cap hit), Jake Matthews ($20.2 million) and Deion Jones ($12.6 million). Try to get out of that three-year, $45 million Dante Fowler Jr. deal that looks bad 10 months later.

And at least explore the trade market for Matt Ryan and Julio Jones, who combine for a massive $64 million cap hit. Try to set up new coach Arthur Smith for the cleanest of slates.

Houston Texans

2020 record: 4-12
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.9
Projected 2021 cap space: -$18,139,131
Big-ticket free agent: Will Fuller V
Low-key important free agent: Tyrell Adams

Priorities this offseason: The Deshaun Watson situation is one that must be addressed before anything else this offseason. Otherwise, sit tight; don't overload your roster with more bold moves. Bill O'Brien did enough aimless maneuvering to leave the Texans with no first- or second-round picks. Maybe move up in the draft for better Day 2 positioning, but keep it sensible.

Consider franchise tagging Fuller (tags will be lower this year due to a declining salary cap). Most of the Texans' free agents can walk.

Take J.J. Watt's advice and prioritize players who want to work hard. Watt is still productive at 31, but with a $17.5 million cap hit next year, the Texans might be best suited trying to trade Watt to a contender or releasing him outright.

Detroit Lions

2020 record: 5-11
Average age of roster in 2020: 27.2
Projected 2021 cap space: $8,594,861
Big-ticket free agent: Kenny Golladay
Low-key important free agent: Romeo Okwara

Priorities this offseason: It's time to gauge trade interest in Matthew Stafford; it has been 12 years, and it hasn't worked. Stafford's pedigree should earn Detroit a first-round pick, which coupled with its existing top-10 pick provides more ammunition to get a top signal-caller in the draft.

Infusing the defense with more speed is crucial. Detroit was one of the league's slowest defenses, which compromised the pass rush and strained the secondary.

Time to reassess

Cincinnati Bengals

2020 record: 4-11-1
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.7
Projected 2021 cap space: $31,921,577
Big-ticket free agent: A.J. Green
Low-key important free agent: William Jackson

Priorities this offseason: Fix the offensive line by any means possible. Playing with a mix of projects and journeymen won't suffice. Invest big in the position through free agency or the draft. Create synergy, from the coaches to players.

There were whispers about player discontent beyond the normal losing, especially on defense. (Carlos Dunlap teased this by forcing a trade.) Making changes to the defensive staff is a good start. Zac Taylor's two wins in December created momentum for Year 3, and Joe Burrow believes he can win big in Cincinnati.

Philadelphia Eagles

2020 record: 4-11-1
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.4
Projected 2021 cap space: -$70,568,434
Big-ticket free agent: Jalen Mills
Low-key important free agent: Duke Riley

Priorities this offseason: Where do you start? This is deeper than Carson Wentz's struggles. The roster just isn't very good. And to think the Eagles could have a top QB staring them in the face in April's draft.

Decide now: Fix Wentz or draft someone, knowing Jalen Hurts can develop through either scenario. The belief leaguewide is the Eagles will explore trade options but are prepared to keep Wentz. The decision to fire Doug Pederson would certainly lend credence to the idea that Wentz is the priority.

Move on from Zach Ertz, who would welcome a change at this point. He has one year left on his deal, and the past efforts at a negotiation didn't go well. Use draft capital to improve the secondary and wide receiver spots. And restructure a boatload of contracts to get under the cap.

Stuck in QB purgatory

Chicago Bears

2020 record: 8-8
Average age of starters in 2020: 27.3
Projected 2021 cap space: -$10,188,695
Big-ticket free agent: Allen Robinson
Low-key important free agent: Mitchell Trubisky

Priorities this offseason: Make the determination -- and make it soon -- whether a Mitch Trubisky-led offense can be more than this. The Bears found a late-season stride as a play-action, movement-zone offense with Trubisky managing the game. But the Bears' offense looked lifeless in their playoff loss to the Saints, resigned to run-heavy three-and-outs and an overall lack of trust in Trubisky to air it out. Replicating that recipe will produce a third straight 8-8 season. Either decide Trubisky can make a Year 5 jump or keep building behind an improving offensive line, tailback David Montgomery and a rookie QB. Either way, make it a personal goal to produce the first 4,000-yard passer in Bears history. And make modest attempts to re-sign Robinson.

Washington Football Team

2020 record: 7-9
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.4
Projected 2021 cap space: $35,132,755
Big-ticket free agent: Brandon Scherff
Low-key important free agent: Ronald Darby

Priorities this offseason: For the first time in a while, Washington is in a pretty good place. Ron Rivera is the right coach for the job, the defense is loaded up front and intriguing young playmakers lead the offense. That's why I expect Washington to get aggressive in its quarterback hunt. Sam Darnold could be a low-cost fix, and Washington could exchange some midround draft capital for a talented but erratic player who clearly needs a change. Or Washington can think bigger and target Matthew Stafford or even Deshaun Watson. Then it's time to focus on the lines. Try to re-sign Scherff if the money is reasonable. Re-signing defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, a 2022 free agent, would send the message that the stout defensive line is a top priority.

Carolina Panthers

2020 record: 5-11

Average age of roster in 2020: 26.5
Projected 2021 cap space: $14,410,408
Big-ticket free agent: Taylor Moton
Low-key important free agent: Russell Okung

Priorities this offseason: Supplement Teddy Bridgewater with a draft pick who can sit and learn for a year. Carolina has eyed this draft class of quarterbacks for quite some time.

Re-signing Moton before he hits free agency should be a priority. He is a cornerstone tackle. Wideout Robby Anderson, a 2022 free agent, will probably want a new deal after his 1,000-yard season. Carolina could use one more piece in the secondary, which it can find in free agency. Just look at how well former Panthers cornerback James Bradberry worked out with the Giants.

Denver Broncos

2020 record: 5-11
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.2
Projected 2021 cap space: $16,660,095
Big-ticket free agent: Justin Simmons
Low-key important free agent: Kareem Jackson

Priorities this offseason: The offseason starts and stops with Drew Lock. No quarterback is more unpredictable on Sundays than Lock, who has plenty of arm but lacks elite decision-making. The Broncos have been noncommittal on Lock due to his 15 interceptions in 13 games in Year 2. The Broncos would be smart to sign an established veteran to push Lock, similar to what the Chicago Bears did with Nick Foles and Mitchell Trubisky.

It wouldn't shock to see Denver decline Von Miller's $17.5 million option for next year. The Broncos can save around $18 million in cap space by moving on, and Miller would have a nice market at age 31. Simmons should be a priority this offseason. He is a star safety who won't have any interest in playing on a second franchise tag.

Dallas Cowboys

2020 record: 6-10
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.5
Projected 2021 cap space: $19,240,465
Big-ticket free agent: Dak Prescott
Low-key important free agent: Aldon Smith

Priorities this offseason: End the charade and pay Prescott. The Dallas offense was about 10 points and 80 yards better per game with Prescott in the lineup this year. Normally, I'd say move on and draft a replacement, because the money has reached obscene levels. But there's no guarantee the Cowboys can get one of the top guys, and Dallas can structure the deal to lessen the cap hit in 2021 while hoping Prescott's recovery from ankle surgery helps negotiations.

Then use draft capital to improve the defensive line and the secondary. Mike McCarthy can take a hard look at whether Mike Nolan is the right defensive coordinator for him.

Surprisingly comfortable despite losing record

San Francisco 49ers

2020 record: 6-10
Average age of roster in 2020: 27.1
Projected 2021 cap space: $12,341,563
Big-ticket free agent: Trent Williams
Low-key important free agents: Kyle Juszczyk, Jason Verrett

Priorities this offseason: Consider 2020 an aberration and get back to work. The 49ers know they are good and won't overreact to an unseemly stretch of injuries.

Gauge trade interest for oft-injured Jimmy Garoppolo, but ultimately consider reasons to keep him too. The 49ers are 24-10 with Garoppolo and 7-25 without him since 2017. Keeping him doesn't preclude San Francisco from drafting a quarterback in the first round and applying pressure on the veteran.

It would be helpful to find out what's causing all these injuries to virtually every position and use that information to prevent them in 2021. Keep either Verrett or Richard Sherman at corner, but not both; can't afford both, because re-signing linebacker Fred Warner (a 2022 free agent) and left tackle Williams is paramount.

Los Angeles Chargers

2020 record: 7-9
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.3
Projected 2021 cap space: $21,309,315
Big-ticket free agent: Hunter Henry
Low-key important free agent: Melvin Ingram

Priorities this offseason: Maximize Justin Herbert. Give him whatever he needs as far as offensive system with the new head coach. The signal-caller already has elite playmakers around him. The offensive line needs at least one more piece, and a new offensive coach with a creative system would utilize Herbert's ability to throw from the pocket or on the move.

Whoever the coach is next year must clean up the curious late-game management under Anthony Lynn.

The defense isn't as talented as it was two years ago. It is aging and needs reinforcements up front and in the secondary. This is a team with anchors on both sides of the ball that should contend for an AFC West title.

One side of the ball needs major help

Baltimore Ravens

2020 record: 11-5
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.9
Projected 2021 cap space: $17,420,423
Big-ticket free agent: Matt Judon
Low-key important free agent: Willie Snead IV

Priorities this offseason: Get Lamar Jackson a No. 1 receiver. Plenty of options could hit free agency, led by Chris Godwin, Kenny Golladay and Allen Robinson II. Robinson is the most likely to avoid the franchise tag, so get in the bidding early. Decide whether OC Greg Roman can modernize the passing game for Jackson. At the least, add a passing game coordinator to infuse more nuance and savvy in the downfield attack. Start to plan for the inevitable Jackson extension.

On the other side of the ball, figure out what's feasible with Yannick Ngakoue and Judon, two pass-rushers coming off franchise tags. Keeping both will be pricey, so pick which one you like best.

Tennessee Titans

2020 record: 11-5
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.9
Projected 2021 cap space: $1,032,198
Big-ticket free agent: Corey Davis
Low-key important free agent: Jonnu Smith

Priorities this offseason: Reset the pass rush. The Titans spent $22.2 million on zero combined sacks from Jadeveon Clowney and Vic Beasley Jr., and it set the entire defense back. Let Clowney walk, then identify a game-wrecking rusher in the draft to improve that 30th-ranked pass rush.

Davis' near-1,000-yard season likely gets him to free agency for the highest bidder. But create some extra cap space for Smith, who won't command top-of-market tight end money but whose versatility is crucial to the Titans' multidimensional attack. He posted a career-high 41 catches for eight touchdowns in 2020.

Minnesota Vikings

2020 record: 7-9
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.3
Projected 2021 cap space: -$10,189,325
Big-ticket free agent: Anthony Harris
Low-key important free agent: Eric Wilson

Priorities this offseason: Since taking over Minnesota in 2014, Mike Zimmer has always counterbalanced lackluster seasons with double-digit wins. There's reason to believe Minnesota can follow that formula again. The Vikings ranked in the top 10 in total offense for the first time since 2009. Keep the core together on that side, starting with an extension for tackle Brian O'Neill.

It's the defense that unexpectedly fell apart, ranking in the bottom third in several statistical categories.

The Vikings are in a tough spot with DE Danielle Hunter, who is underpaid at $14 million per year. The Vikings planned to pay him at some point, but his season-ending neck surgery complicates matters. Make sure he is healthy and comfortable with his contract, then let Harris walk and attempt to re-sign Wilson. Doing any of this will be tough for a team well over the cap for 2021. Cutting veterans such as tackle Riley Reiff and tight end Kyle Rudolph appears in order.

New England Patriots

2020 record: 7-9
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.9
Projected 2021 cap space: $51,092,197
Big-ticket free agent: Joe Thuney
Low-key important free agent: James White

Priorities this offseason: Watching the 2020 Patriots was painful for those who like a semblance of offense on Sundays. Bill Belichick can attack the offseason by adding playmakers at several spots. Free agency is well-stocked with wide receivers. From high-end options (Allen Robinson) to that next tier (Corey Davis, T.Y. Hilton), the Patriots should gauge prices on all of them.

And there will be plenty of capable veteran quarterbacks out there. The Patriots would be wise to explore deals for Carson Wentz, Stafford or Garoppolo. For a cheaper option, former Patriot Jacoby Brissett will be a free agent. All of these options are probably better than a Cam Newton-led passing game that ranked 30th in the NFL this season.

New York Giants

2020 record: 6-10
Average age of roster in 2020: 26.4
Projected 2021 cap space: $9,593,258
Big-ticket free agent: Leonard Williams
Low-key important free agent: Wayne Gallman

Priorities this offseason: Spark the offense with new concepts and talent. If the Giants are sticking with Daniel Jones for a third season, he needs more receivers who can beat man coverage consistently, one more running back and some new ideas for how to make it all work. Ranking next to last in total offense doesn't bode well for offensive coordinator Jason Garrett.

Attempting to re-sign Evan Engram now is a prudent move. When modest stats don't match the elite talent -- he does not have an 800-yard season since entering the league in 2017 -- that's usually good for the team in negotiations.

Las Vegas Raiders

2020 record: 8-8
Average age of roster in 2020: 27
Projected 2021 cap space: -$13,248,520
Big-ticket free agent: Johnathan Hankins
Low-key important free agent: Nelson Agholor

Priorities this offseason: The lack of resources on the defense is hurting the overall product. The Raiders have allocated 37% of their 2020 and 2021 salary caps to that side of the ball. The offense has more than enough to win, ranking eighth in total offense behind Derek Carr, Darren Waller, a stout offensive line and intriguing young playmakers. Time to give the defense the same treatment, starting with prioritizing help along the defensive line via free agency and the draft.

The Raiders took late-season fliers on former first-round pass-rushers Takkarist McKinley and Vic Beasley, who failed spectacularly in Tennessee. The Raiders will need sizable jumps from defensive backs Damon Arnette and Johnathan Abram. That whole defensive unit needs more discipline.

Re-signing Agholor will be a difficult but smart proposition.

On the right track (mostly)

Los Angeles Rams

2020 record: 10-6
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.1
Projected 2021 cap space: -$26,185,460
Big-ticket free agent: John Johnson III
Low-key important free agent: Leonard Floyd

Priorities this offseason: Run it back with the core and some minor tweaks; a few re-signings, a few contract restructures to get under the cap and perhaps a few complementary pieces at linebacker or offensive line via free agency.

Johnson and Floyd will command high money, so the Rams will probably have to choose to keep one. They also face a tough call with Gerald Everett, a talented change-of-pace tight end who has never carried a full load while playing behind Tyler Higbee. Jared Goff isn't going anywhere with three straight years of $30 million-plus cap hits, but signing a veteran backup to push him wouldn't be a terrible idea.

Pittsburgh Steelers

2020 record: 12-4
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.7
Projected 2021 cap space: -$30,977,114
Big-ticket free agent: JuJu Smith-Schuster
Low-key important free agent: Alejandro Villanueva

Priorities this offseason: Have a big-picture, philosophical discussion about the offense. The short passing game stalled out late in the year, the running game is among the league's worst and Ben Roethlisberger turns 39 in March. He's also due a cap hit of $41.25 million the last year of his deal. The Steelers must determine the viability of Big Ben's no-huddle, five-wide attack. They can add voidable years to Roethlisberger's deal to lessen the cap hit if 2021 indeed shapes up to be his last. Pittsburgh must make cap concessions all over the roster, making re-signing key players Smith-Schuster, Villanueva and James Conner an arduous task. The cleanest path is to let some free agents walk, release a few veterans, pay T.J. Watt and keep drafting well.

Seattle Seahawks

2020 record: 12-4
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.9
Projected 2021 cap space: $7,218,175
Big-ticket free agent: Shaquill Griffin
Low-key important free agent: Chris Carson

Priorities this offseason: Seattle faces major financial decisions and not much cap room with which to make them. After giving up two first-round picks for Jamal Adams, extending him this offseason is the next logical step. That's a negotiation that could take up much of the offseason. But Seattle also will discuss a new deal with Griffin in the coming weeks, which could set the stage to use a franchise or transition tag on Carson (running back tags will be discounted with a lowering salary cap). Given cap ramifications, Seattle might have to prioritize two of those players and let the third one walk. The Seahawks need reinforcements along an offensive line that failed to protect Russell Wilson in the wild-card loss to the Rams. They must get younger and more talented there.

Indianapolis Colts

2020 record: 11-5
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.5
Projected 2021 cap space: $57,639,604
Big-ticket free agent: Philip Rivers
Low-key important free agent: Xavier Rhodes

Priorities this offseason: The Colts have a ready-made roster to contend in 2021 and need clarity at the most important position to put them over the top. That's why multiple people around the league expect Indy to look into potential trades for Matthew Stafford or Carson Wentz, who could reunite with Frank Reich from their Eagles days. GM Chris Ballard has been patient in building a winner, and now is the time to strike. Re-signing linebacker Darius Leonard, a 2022 free agent, before San Francisco resets the market by re-signing Fred Warner would be a prudent move. The Colts likely will let T.Y. Hilton test the market, which leaves the draft to find Indy's next downfield threat.

Arizona Cardinals

2020 record: 8-8
Average age of roster in 2020: 27.5
Projected 2021 cap space: $13,427,272
Big-ticket free agent: Patrick Peterson
Low-key important free agent: Haason Reddick

Priorities this offseason: The Cardinals' postseason meetings should address why a 6-3 season fell apart. Kliff Kingsbury suffered a few growing pains when trying to close out games, and the vertical passing game was uneven despite moments of brilliance from Kyler Murray.

Most of the Cardinals' issues are not talent-based, though. The franchise jumped from holding the No. 1 pick to the cusp of the playoffs in two years, and Kingsbury deserves some credit for that. This is a roster that can win big next year. The offense averaged 385 yards per game, and the defense played at a respectable level, despite the need for an extra pass-rusher and more secondary help.

Success hinges largely on Kingsbury, Murray and GM Steve Keim making a leap in their third year together.

Miami Dolphins

2020 record: 10-6
Average age of roster in 2020: 25.8
Projected 2020 cap space: $24,864,768
Big-ticket free agent: Ryan Fitzpatrick
Low-key important free agent: Elandon Roberts

Priorities this offseason: With the No. 3 overall pick staring Miami in the face thanks to the Laremy Tunsil trade with Houston, the NFL is about to find out how the Dolphins really feel about Tua Tagovailoa. Justin Fields or Zach Wilson could be available to Miami as part of a talented draft class. Doing extensive homework on that class and weighing the pros and cons of riding with Tagovailoa in Year 2 is crucial for Miami's success.

Tagovailoa did some good things, and he might be the long-term answer, but the truth is Miami would trade out of that third spot without hesitation if Justin Herbert were its quarterback. Either way, the one-year Chan Gailey experiment at OC might be over. And the quarterback in 2021 needs more dynamic pass-catchers to stretch the field vertically and maybe one more solid lineman. Otherwise, this roster is well-positioned for contention right now.

On the brink

Cleveland Browns

2020 record: 11-5
Average age of starters in 2020: 26.3
Projected 2021 cap space: $21,806,883
Big-ticket free agent: Karl Joseph
Low-key important free agent: B.J. Goodson

Priorities this offseason: After relying on a series of short-term deals on defense, the Browns need upgrades in a few areas, particularly in the secondary. Prioritize all three levels in free agency and the draft. Be proactive in keeping draft picks that hit (Baker Mayfield, Nick Chubb and Denzel Ward for starters).

Rashard Higgins has likely played his way into a second-tier receiver contract with the Browns, who can spend on a core that should keep the Browns competitive for a while. Make a decision on Odell Beckham Jr.'s future. His $15.75 million cap hit isn't outrageous, so keeping him as a vertical threat will expand the offense.

In need of a financial reset

New Orleans Saints

2020 record: 12-4
Average age of starters in 2020: 27.5
Projected 2021 cap space: -$98,480,924
Big-ticket free agent: Trey Hendrickson
Low-key important free agent: Marcus Williams

Priorities this offseason: The Saints face an avalanche of cap issues, several free agents they probably can't re-sign, star 2022 free agents who need extensions -- and that's before you get to Drew Brees' impending retirement. Getting through this offseason with most of the current roster intact would be a mild upset.

Deciding whether Taysom Hill or Jameis Winston should replace Brees is atop the list. Meanwhile, nearly 10 Saints veterans have cap hits of $10 million or more next year. It's possible several of them won't be back. The Saints should make efforts to re-sign Williams, whose ball-hawking abilities bolstered the secondary.

Checking in on the Rams' 2020 draft class, end-of-season edition

For some members of the Rams' 2020 rookie class, playing time – and in some cases starting roles – was found right away. For others, the second half of their first NFL season unfolded similar to the first because of the veteran experience in their position group, making playing time sporadic.

After checking in with the group in early November, theRams.com has an updated, end-of-season look at how each of them fared.

RB CAM AKERS (ROUND 2, NO. 52 OVERALL)

The 2020 season began with Akers sharing carries with fellow running backs Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson Jr. in a committee backfield. By the end of it, Akers finished as the team's leading rusher.

Despite missing three games due to injury (two with a rib injury, one due to a high ankle sprain), Akers still managed to finish with 145 carries for 625 yards and two touchdowns, plus 11 catches for 123 yards and one touchdown in the passing game in 13 games. His 625 rushing yards edged Henderson by one to end the regular season for most on the team, while his carries edged Henderson by seven for the team lead in that category.

His 2020 season was also highlighted by rushing for 171 yards in a Week 14 win over the Patriots on Thursday Night Football, a performance that marked the most in a single game by a Rams rookie running back since Jerome Bettis' 212 against the Saints in 1993 and earned Akers NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.

Akers also had 46 carries for 221 yards and two touchdowns, plus three receptions for 51 yards during the Rams' playoff run.

Akers played in 13 games, 297 of 1119 (26.5 percent) of offensive snaps in the regular season, 104 of 126 (82.5 percent) offensive snaps in the playoffs.

WR VAN JEFFERSON (ROUND 2, NO. 57 OVERALL)

Much like the first half of the season, Jefferson's playing time fluctuated during the second half as Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds handled the majority of the reps in the rotation.

The final four weeks of the regular season marked his most significant involvement, as nearly 50 percent of his total offensive snaps for the season (131 of 268) came during that span, including 44 in the regular season finale against the Cardinals with Kupp on the Reserve/COVID-19 list that week. Jefferson had four catches for a season-high 50 yards in that contest and finished the regular season with 31 catches for 220 yards and one touchdown.

With Kupp (knee) inactive for the divisional round playoff game against the Packers, Jefferson again saw an uptick in playing time and finished with six catches for 46 yards and one touchdown.

Jefferson played in all 16 games, 268 of 1119 (23.9 percent) of offensive snaps in the regular season and also saw some action on special teams. He also played 46 offensive snaps and 20 special teams snaps across both of the Rams' playoff games (46 offensive snaps all coming in the divisional round).

OLB TERRELL LEWIS (ROUND 3, NO. 84 OVERALL)

Atrophy from a knee procedure Lewis underwent in the preseason – due to infection concerns from a previous procedure – led to him being placed on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list and missing the first four games before making his debut in Week 5. Unfortunately, knee issues – swelling, to be specific – would again pop up in the second half of the season and cause the team to take another precautionary approach by making him inactive for four games (Weeks 12-15).

In the eight games Lewis was active and healthy during the regular season, he played a combined 121 defensive snaps and played a handful of snaps on special teams in Weeks 5, 7 and 8. He played nine defensive snaps in the wild card round of the playoffs but was inactive for the divisional round after popping up on the injury report with an ankle injury.

S TERRELL BURGESS (ROUND 3, NO. 104 OVERALL)

Burgess was placed on Injured Reserve on Oct. 28, two days after sustaining a season-ending ankle injury against the Bears on Monday Night Football.

Prior to the injury, he predominantly saw action on special teams (134 snaps) but also saw 49 defensive snaps, too. He finished his rookie season with eight total tackles and one pass breakup in seven games.

TE BRYCEN HOPKINS (ROUND 4, NO. 136 OVERALL)

Hopkins effectively had a redshirt year with Tyler Higbee, Gerald Everett and Johnny Mundt. He was inactive for 11 of 16 regular season games, plus the wild card round against the Seahawks. Although Hopkins was active for the divisional round against the Packers, he did not play.

When Hopkins was active, he played special teams almost exclusively. His only two offensive snaps of the regular season came against the Bears, otherwise he played 50 special teams snaps.

S JORDAN FULLER (ROUND 6, NO. 199 OVERALL)

Other than a shoulder injury that forced him to miss Week 4, then Weeks 6-8, Fuller was a reliable contributor to the Rams' secondary in his first pro season. He started all 12 games he played in, finished fourth on the team in total tackles (60) and tied with cornerback Troy Hill for second in interceptions (3).

When Fuller returned from injured reserve in Week 10, he played 99 percent of the Rams' defensive snaps, then 100 percent in each of their final seven regular season games, plus both playoff games.

Overall, Fuller played 707 of 1024 (69 percent) of the Rams' regular season defensive snaps and all 139 defensive snaps across both playoff games.

OL TREMAYNE ANCHRUM JR. (ROUND 7, NO. 250 OVERALL)

Besides three offensive snaps in Week 16 against the Seahawks, Anchrum played mostly on special teams (51 snaps). He was active for 13 of 16 regular season games.

When left tackle Andrew Whitworth got scheduled veteran rest days off of practice during game weeks, Anchrum would receive more reps with the first team offensive line. When Whitworth suffered a knee injury and Joe Noteboom was elevated to starting left tackle, Anchrum got reps at swing tackle – the backup role for a player capable of playing both left and right tackle. However, it's important to remind that the Rams projected him as a guard when they drafted him last year.

I turned 40 last month December 4th, dinner with Dad and my stepmom she's a wonderful person she really is.
Facts disclosed: My Dad has been sober since 1991 still is.

My Dad, That man is my best friend in my life and introduced me to classic rock and being a Rams fan since birth. Back in the day he saw them all I'm
confident I have to in my ,you know, know lifetime so far.

My Dad in 1976 thru 1980 was the biggest pot dealer in AZ. Jimmy, Rams James, Rocket Jimmy. Wow! What a birthday! He just sorta said it drinking Iced Tea at a steakhouse.
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Rock On ROD!

So glad the Rams wouldn’t hire a doofus like this.

Coaches like McVay and Staley are where the NFL is headed— bright, meticulous, obsessed with details, good teachers.

This “kick ‘em in the teeth” style of coaching is on its way out, IMHO.

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Guess we can start a new one of these if I missed one please delete or merge. First huge signing of the "offseason" since he was cut he can be signed now by a team just like Mark Ingram can.

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Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) Tweeted:
The Rams are hiring former Jacksonville ST coach Joe DeCamillis to coach their special teams, a source confirmed. Bonamego moving into more of an advisory/senior assistant role. First by @AlbertBreer Login to view embedded media View: https://twitter.com/JourdanRodrigue/status/1352308120660283402?s=20