The minute Rams Nation heard that Scott Linehan was hired as head coach, rumors began circulating that there was no doubt that he'd be pursuing the likes of Daunte Culpepper or even drafting Jay Cutler, and that Bulger's career with the Rams was in question. Which led everyone to believe that Linehan simply was not sold on Bulger.But just like most rumors, it turned out to be nothing but fanciful thoughts spurred on by perhaps bored sportswriters with nothing else to do but try and stir up controversy. In fact Bulger's career year under the guidance of Linehan has basically written his stay with the Rams in stone. Linehan has indicated he wants Bulger to stay with the Rams as long as he wants to stay a quarterback in the NFL and he's already lobbied the front office to start working on his contract extension now.
Others that are already being scrutinized by the Rams and Linehan are:
Jon Alston: Although Alston, usually a linebacker, who didn't see much action in 2006, still has a possible future with the Rams. Because of his size, barely weighing in at 220 pounds, Haslett doesn't feel he's suited for linebacker position unless he puts on some bulk. But Linehan is highly intrigued at trying him as a box safety playing close to the line to help stuff the run and because of his speed they feel he could be groomed to eventually take over the spot of Corey Chavous in a year or two.
Dominique Byrd: Rookie tight end only caught two passes and one for an impressive touchdown, didn't make the first or second spot at tight end when the season began, but late in the season in practice he impressed the coaching staff so much that they decided to give him a shot and he made good use of every second he had on the field. So much so that the Rams now envision using him in 2007 as a slot receiver and out of the backfield as an H-back.
Free Agency: With contract extensions already in place for both Pisa Tinoisamoa and Leonard Little, the Rams could breath easier knowing that were keeping two of their best. Earlier in 2006 they had tried to pursue wide receiver Kevin Curtis, but once he fired his agent they were not able to approach him for any type of contract negotiations. Now with his hiring of Tom Condon and showing some interest in the free agency market, it's expected that he'll draw a lot of interest and the possibility of a team outbidding the Rams is eminent making the likelihood of the Rams losing Curtis a reality. Shaun McDonald, the Rams fourth receiver may also be lost to free agency since the Rams have not shown any interest in bringing him back.
With the possibility of losing two receivers in the off season, who knows, maybe Denzel's boy, John David Washington, will get a shot at playing with the 'big boys'.
