The Rams didn't make many waves in the free-agent pool during the off-season, but then again, they didn't have many holes to fill. Their biggest losses were LB London Fletcher and WR Az-Zahir Hakim. How badly they will be missed is the big question, but the Rams are hoping the moves they made will sufficiently fill their needs. Here are their top additions for the 2002 season!
1) Jamie Duncan LB, Tampa Bay
While he may not be on the same level as Fletcher, Duncan is a solid linebacker. He is also familiar with defensive coach Lovie Smith having played for him in Tampa Bay. In 2001, Duncan recorded 86 tackles, two sacks, one interception, and forced one fumble.
2) Terrence Wilkins WR, Indianapolis
Wilkins should make a good third receiver in the Rams' system, although he does not possess the explosiveness of Hakim. He has great speed and good hands, but the Rams may benefit more from his talents as a return man than as a receiver. He caught 34 balls in ten games for the Indianapolis Colts last year, and is expected to bring similar production to the Rams.
3) Robert Thomas LB, UCLA
A lot of experts think the Rams "reached" for the standout linebacker out of UCLA when they drafted him in the first round of this year's NFL draft, but he has a chance to step in and win a starting job. Even if he doesn't pick up the starting assignment, he should still see plenty of playing time.
4) Travis Fisher CB, Central Florida
Travis Fisher is another rookie that could see extensive playing time, especially in nickel and dime packages. The second-round cornerback is fluid in coverage and has a sharp closing burst. At 5-10, he doesn't possess great size, but he has demonstrated good speed, running a 4.37 40-yard dash during pre-draft workouts.
5) Mitch Berger P, Minnesota
The Rams' offense may be spectacular, but they still need to carry a punter on the roster... just in case. Berger, who was added to the roster after John Baker was grabbed by the Houston Texans, is is a seven-year veteran of NFL punting wars. He has a career punting average just over 43 yards, but his net average has suffered the past couple seasons.
