The Rams are expected to release veteran outside linebacker Leonard Floyd, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Though LA would prefer to trade him if they can find a partner.
The move is not a huge surprise, as Floyd carries a big cap hit into 2023. If the Rams designate Floyd as a post-June 1 release, it will save them $15.5 million. If they cut him before June 1, they would only save $3 million.
In releasing Floyd and Bobby Wagner, the Rams should be able to duck under the salary cap. Prior to the moves, the Rams were about $15 million over the cap.
Teams are allowed to designate two players as post-June 1 releases per year. If the Rams do so with Wagner and Floyd, they would clear $23.5 million in space this offseason.
Floyd played three years for the Rams, notching at least nine sacks in each season. His best performance came in the Super Bowl year of 2022, when he racked up 10.5 sacks.
While Floyd was a solid player, it’s a move that makes sense from a financial perspective. Still, it won’t be easy to replace a plus starter on a limited budget.
