The Los Angeles Rams were active in free agency, making a series of strategic moves to bolster their roster. While the acquisition of Davante Adams headlined their offseason, they also re-signed key players like left tackle Alaric Jackson, receiver Tutu Atwell, and cornerback Akhello Witherspoon, and added center Coleman Shelton and linebacker Nate Landman. These moves are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s playoff chances this season.
Coleman Shelton Has Highest Upside Among Los Angeles Rams Free Agent Additions
However, Pro Football Focus’ Ben Cooper identifies Coleman Shelton as having the most upside relative to his contract.
“Shelton returns to the Rams, with whom he latched on in 2019 and played four seasons, after a career year with the Bears in 2024,” Cooper wrote. “Los Angeles leaned on rookie Beaux Limmer at center in place of Shelton in 2024, but he endured typical first-year growing pains and ranked 38th out of 43 qualifying centers in PFF overall grade (55.5). Shelton, meanwhile, has improved each year as a starter, going from a 58.0 PFF overall grade in 2022 to a career-high 66.4 mark last season.”
Cooper’s analysis suggests two key points: Shelton has demonstrated consistent improvement as a center, and he presents a viable option to replace Beaux Limmer, either before or during the season. While these are significant assumptions, they are supported by Shelton’s two-year, $12 million contract. Limmer, a young player on a rookie deal, offers less financial risk, but Shelton’s veteran experience provides a reliable alternative should Limmer struggle in his second year.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Rams YouTube Channel