11 free agents the Rams should legally tamper with this week

The Rams should gauge the market for these 11 free agents before the new league year begins.

Patriots G Joe Thuney

Thuney is the best guard (and probably offensive lineman) set to hit free agency, which will make him a hot commodity. He’s an elite pass blocker and is also a good in the run game, and is sure to solidify a team’s offensive line this offseason.

The problem for the Rams is that Thuney is almost certain to be out of their price range. However, if they want to get creative and don’t plan to sign any of their own top free agents, they could sign Thuney and give a youngster (Joseph Noteboom, Bobby Evans) a chance at left tackle to replace Whitworth.

49ers C Ben Garland

Garland shouldn’t be confused with a top-level center, but he was the starter for the 49ers during their run to the Super Bowl last season. He played every postseason snap for San Francisco, helping pave the way for the team’s dominant running game.

He’d be a better starter than Brian Allen, who probably won’t practice until training camp after injuring his knee last season. Garland won’t be an expensive free agent, either, never being a full-time starter in the NFL.

Broncos G/C Connor McGovern

McGovern has been a primary starter in each of the last two years, playing right guard and center in his career. he started six games at center in 2019, putting together his best season in the NFL.

He didn’t commit a single penalty and only allowed one sack on 1,013 snaps played, earning an overall grade of 71.9 from PFF. His versatility and proven track record at both guard and center make him a good target for the Rams.