Les Snead locked up another member of the offense long term by reaching a deal with guard Rob Havenstein. Havenstein was in the last year of his rookie deal and according to Adam Schefter, the deal is a four year, $32.5 million deal. The guaranteed money hasn’t been disclosed yet, but this deal is good news for Jared Goff. Locking up Havenstein means the Rams can breathe a little easier while rookies Joe Noteboom and Jamil Demby develop.
Havenstein started 15 games last season, and has missed four games since being drafted in the 2nd round in 2015. He was part of the only line to feature the same starting group through 15 games last season where the Rams won a division title and made the playoffs for the first time since 2004.
The Rams’ offensive line is in a good place this season but next year will look a lot different. 36 year old tackle Andrew Whitworth likely won’t be around, and neither will center John Sullivan. Guards Jamon Brown and Rodger Saffold are free agents at the end of the year as well. Signing Havenstein gives the Rams at least one starter to build around while the rookies develop.
What about the big guy?
The Rams’ offensive line is in a good place this season but next year will look a lot different.
Havenstein’s extension comes on the heels of Brandin Cooks and Todd Gurley signing massive extensions. Sean McVay is building a solid offensive foundation for years to come. The question still remains of when Aaron Donald gets locked up but given the relative silence on both sides a deal seems close. It seems odd to extend their tackle when Donald is the biggest concern but long term it makes sense. Goff and Gurley can sleep a little easier knowing that they have their top lineman around for years to come.