4 free agents with connections to Rams DC Brandon Staley

John Glaser-USA TODAY Sports In a somewhat surprising move, the Rams parted ways with Wade Phillips as their defensive coordinator. Sean McVay replaced him with 37-year-old Brandon Staley, who has been an outside linebackers coach under Vic Fangio …

DE Derek Wolfe

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

To be clear, Wolfe is a defensive end, not an outside linebacker. But players at different positions interact with other coaches, so he certainly crossed paths with Staley in Denver last season. Wolfe posted a career-high seven sacks in 2019 with Staley on the Broncos’ staff, forcing one fumble and hitting the QB 12 times – third-most in his career.

If the Rams part ways with Michael Brockers, Wolfe could be a viable replacement – though he likely won’t be any cheaper than Brockers in free agency. Still, he’s someone to keep an eye on if Los Angeles is seeking help at defensive end.