Rams offensive linemen Coleman Shelton and Kevin Dotson are anticipated to become unrestricted free agents.
The Rams are staying in touch with offensive linemen Kevin Dotson and Coleman Shelton ahead of the upcoming NFL free agency period. General Manager Les Snead informed reporters on Tuesday that both players are expected to explore their options on the open market.
Dotson, who served as the team’s starting right guard last season, was set to become a free agent after his rookie contract expired. Meanwhile, Shelton had the option to void the final year of his two-year contract signed last offseason, which Snead confirmed he’s exercising to test free agency.
Snead mentioned that the Rams have maintained ongoing discussions with Shelton and his representatives, with similar talks occurring with Dotson and his camp.
“[Shelton] decided to exercise the void, and now we’ll work on potentially negotiating a new contract for him,” Snead stated. “Kevin has earned the opportunity to gauge his true market value.”
Acknowledging the players’ desire to assess their market worth, Snead emphasized the importance of patience in the free agency process for both sides, likening it to a slow-cooking process rather than a quick fix.
The Rams have also engaged in conversations with safety John Johnson III and cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon and their representatives, both of whom are also expected to explore their options after making significant contributions to the team on veteran minimum deals in 2023.
As the Rams strategize for free agency, they face a salary cap dilemma. Utility offensive lineman Joe Noteboom is slated to carry the fourth-highest cap hit at $20 million. If the Rams were to release him as a post-June 1 cut, they could potentially free up $15 million in cap space with a $5 million dead cap figure.
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