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Rams Make a Huge Free Agency Splash in ESPN Prediction

Could the Los Angeles Rams look to bolster their pass rush when free agency opens up?

By Jovan Alford

Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter (99) warms
Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter (99) warms / Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
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After a surprisingly good 2023 season that saw the Los Angeles Rams win 10 games and return to the playoffs, the team could be big-time players in free agency.

According to Spotrac, the Rams are projected to have $39 million in cap space this offseason, which is enough to make a splash on the offensive or defensive side of the ball. Los Angeles’ defense has a nice mixture of young and veteran players who took a significant leap this year but could use another pass rusher to play alongside Aaron Donald and Kobie Turner.

Rams Rumors: Los Angeles’ Logical Fit For Danielle Hunter

ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote about the best team fits for the top 50 free agents (subscription required) earlier this week and predicts the Rams sign star defensive end Danielle Hunter. 

"The Rams have money to spend in free agency, and filling the edge rushing need should be a priority. Hunter's 16.5 sacks with the Vikings in 2023 were the fifth most in the league, and he also forced four fumbles. Adding Hunter would give the Rams a productive veteran force opposite Byron Young -- who had eight sacks as a rookie -- with Aaron Donald on the interior. That's how you upgrade a pass rush."

- Matt Bowen, ESPN

Hunter has been one of the best edge rushers in the league over the last couple of years, and the Minnesota Vikings might not be able to re-sign him. The Vikings are projected to have $28 million in cap space in free agency, per Spotrac. 

However, Spotrac believes that the 29-year-old edge rusher will get a three-year, $60 million deal, which might be too rich for the Vikings. 

Hunter had an incredible 2023 season, producing 83 combined tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 22 quarterback hits, and 16.5 sacks. Over the last two seasons, the veteran defensive end had 44 quarterback hits, 35 tackles for loss, and 27 sacks.

The Rams got excellent production from rookie linebacker Byron Young this season, who had 19 quarterback hits and eight sacks. If the Rams added Hunter to their defense, it could tighten the gap between them and the reigning NFC champion San Francisco 49ers. 

The Rams are currently considered a long shot (+1500) to win the NFC next season. If you think they can help their chances with some free agency moves, head over to FanDuel Sportsbook to claim your sign-up bonus using the exclusive LA Sports Hub link below.

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