The NFL offseason is officially here now. Free agency and the NFL Draft are the main focus, especially with the NFL Combine underway and the franchise tag window open. As is usually the case, the Combine has resulted in plenty of intriguing NFL rumors and news. With that in mind, we've compiled the most interesting tidbits from around the NFL as the offseason rumor mill starts to heat up.
Rams "Sold" On Case Keenum?
The Los Angeles Rams tried Nick Foles last season at QB and it didn't work very well. He was a disaster, although Case Keenum was better. While most don't consider Keenum a long-term option, the Rams might.
Both GM Les Snead and Coach Fisher sound sold on Case Keenum. #Rams
— Marc Sessler (@MarcSesslerNFL) February 25, 2016
In five starts, Keenum completed 60.8 percent of his passes for 828 yards, four TDs and one pick.
Could Dolphins Franchise And Then Trade Olivier Vernon?
Vernon is fresh off a monster season, and is set to get a large contract if he hits the open market. The Dolphins have publicly said they want to keep Vernon. However, NJ.com reports the Dolphins are telling teams at the NFL Combine they could place the franchise tag on the 25-year old DE and then trade him.
That's a complicated move and doesn't often occur. However, it would allow the Dolphins to get more than the composition draft pick they'd get if Vernon walked in free agency. Given Vernon's young age and abilities, he'll generate interest from nearly every team that needs a 4-3 DE.
Texans Won't Cut Foster Because Of Salary
Arian Foster has been mentioned as a possible cap cut this offseason. However, GM Rick Smith said Thursday at the Combine that Texans won't cut Foster because of his salary. While that does leave open the possibility that the Texans would cut Foster because of his injury issues, Smith said he expects Foster to bounce back and be fine. That's an indication that the Texans will keep Foster and his $6.5 million salary next year.
Bears Like Carson Wentz?
The Chicago Bears are likely to take a QB in the draft, and it might even be in the first round.
Would not fully rule out a 1st round QB if Carson Wentz drops to 11 (not likely). Been told they love him. #Bears https://t.co/3Op7uIC3YD
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) February 25, 2016
That might be a long shot, since Wentz could go as early as No. 2 overall to the Brown.
Ravens Expected To Sign Trent Richardson
It appears that Trent Richardson is getting another chance in the NFL. AL.com reports the Baltimore Ravens will sign Richardson pending a physical. Richardson was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, but has been a bust in the NFL. Perhaps Richardson will prove himself with Baltimore, his fourth NFL team.
Williams Waiting To Be Cut?
Earlier this week, there was a report that Mario Williams would be willing to take a pay cut to remain with the Buffalo Bills. However, the Buffalo News reports Williams wants to be cut.
Source tells me "Mario Williams just waiting to be cut, and the sooner the better" for him.
— Tim Graham (@ByTimGraham) February 25, 2016
The release of Williams seems inevitable, given that his release would save the team nearly $13 million in cap space.
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