Eugene Sims, DE: 3 years, $10 million, $3.75 million guaranteed

Grade: B

Sims played decently as a rotational guy in 9 starts last season in which he picked up 1.5 sacks and was strong setting the edge against the run.

He uses his big frame to keep out of the framework of opposing lineman in order to make plays in the run game, but wasn’t able to use that same length to great effect as a pass-rusher.

Ultimately, he’s not much more than a solid rotational guy, but scheme continuity is important, so I like this signing pretty well. This signing became important with the departure of Chris Long.

 

 

Re-Sign Tim Barnes, C: 2 years, $5.5 million

Grade: D

It’s laughable that this guy got more than the veteran minimum.

He’s 28 so he should be in the midst of his prime, but he just came off a terrible season and has never been much more than an ok backup.

This is kind of a baffling move.

 

 

Re-Sign Brian Quick, WR: 1 year, $3.75 million, $1.5 million guaranteed

Grade: A

A one year deal on a receiver with a solid height-weight-speed combo sounds like a slam dunk to me.

Not much more to say here. No risk, potentially high reward if Quick ever puts it together.

 

 

Re-Sign William Hayes, DE: 3 years, $23 million

Grade: B-

Hayes may become a viable starter, the Rams are betting on it.

You’d have to hope that a team resigning their player would get a deal under the market value. Unfortunately, this is well-over.

Over 7 mil a year for a guy they aren’t totally sure can handle a full starting load is a lot to risk, and Hayes likely won’t play up to the contract.

 

 

Re-Sign Mark Barron, OLB: 5 years, $45 million

Grade: EVEN BAALKE WOULD BALK AT THIS

Barron was an ok starter at linebacker for the Rams after being an awful safety throughout his career.

He didn’t suddenly gain the coverage abilities he had lacked throughout his career and is little more than a hard-hitter with solid instincts. In no way at all is he worth 9 mil per year.

Maybe 3 mil per year. This is unreal. I would have given a Baalke (F) grade, to any deal over $5 mil a year.