Yes, the Rams have been doing plenty of homework regarding quarterback Johnny Manziel. Yes, rumors have circulated regarding a possible trade of Sam Bradford.
Yes, the Rams privately insist they nevertheless remain committed to quarterback Sam Bradford.
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the Rams are doing extensive homework on numerous players, including Manziel. For multiple players, that work includes talking to coaches who worked with those players, even if those coaches at some point left for another job.
For instance, the reported conversations with former Texas A&M assistant coach Kliff Kingsbury encompassed not only Manziel but also Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans and Texas A&M tackle Jake Matthews.
Also, Rams G.M. Les Snead told NBCSN’s Pro Football Talk at the Scouting Combine that the team would fully scout the top quarterbacks in this year’s pool, in order to properly value them if another team decides to trade up to get that player.
The Rams, we’re told, intend to draft a quarterback at some point this year; ultimately, the decision depends on whether the player they want is on the board at the spot where they believe the player merits selection. But Bradford nevertheless remains the starter.
That said, rumors definitely have been circulating that Bradford is available. Jason La Canfora of CBS has said the Rams and Vikings have had conversations about Bradford. Last month, we caught wind of rumors of talks between the Rams and Browns.
Still, the Rams privately insist that there have been no talks regarding a possible trade of Bradford. Even if there were, who would commit $14 million in 2014 base salary to an up-and-down passer who is rehabbing a torn ACL?
That’s reason enough to assume there would be no little or no trade market for Bradford.