JL to Saints

[bwdenverram]

Former Rams LB James Laurinaitis to sign with Saints, source says
10:08 PM ET

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Former Los Angeles Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis is signing with the New Orleans Saints, a source confirmed to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Laurinaitis, who became the Rams' all-time leading tackler in 2015, was shocked at being released by the team in a salary-cap purge Feb. 19 that also included Chris Long and Jared Cook. He had said repeatedly that he hoped to be part of the Rams' turnaround as they moved to Los Angeles for the 2016 season.

Laurinaitis, 29, had signed a five-year, $41.5 million deal with St. Louis before the 2012 season and, along with Long, was the Rams' longest-tenured player before being released.

A second-round pick in the 2009 draft, Laurinaitis had 109 tackles, a sack and an interception last season. In 112 games for the Rams, he compiled 654 tackles, 10 interceptions, eight fumble recoveries and 16½ sacks in seven seasons. He also won over teammates and coaches with his leadership skills and professional approach.

 

[den-the-coach]

Good for James Laurinaitis Saints trying to retool the defense and could use a good leader. Laurinaitis is a man dedicated to his craft, but the NFL requires linebackers that are faster sideline to sideline and can cover the tight ends in the pass happy NFL.

 

[JackDRams]

What's the LBer situation like in NO? I remember that Anthony kid, but will JL be starting?

 

[Selassie I]

Wish he didn't sign with that shit crew. I've hated them hard since they were in our division.

 

[JUMAVA68]

Wish he didn't sign with that crap crew. I've hated them hard since they were in our division.

At least he didn't sign with the 49ers,Sea or NE.Playing for the Saints I can still root for JL unlike Long who did the unforgivable.

 

[LesBaker]

How much $$$???

 

[bwdenverram]

I had a feeling he would end up there. Don't think they have much in the LB area but I don't know that team at all.
Not reported how much $$ yet that I've seen.

 

[DaveFan'51]

I'm glad he got a New Gig sooner rather than later, Now he has plenty of time to make sure he's in shape for the new season! I wish him well!

 

[Roman Snow]

I wish him well, too. I think he and Chris have 2 more years left in the tank.

 

[Leuzer]

Best of luck to ya, JL55! And thanks for not signing with the Patriots.

 

[Loyal]

I know it seems to be all about the money, but these guys (especially Long and James L) love the game. It will always suck for me that the team couldn't have had even ONE playoff game for them (and us)

 

[Elmgrovegnome]

I read that 4 other teams were interested and he chose the Saints. I don't know the other teams, but the Saints aren't exactly a SB contender. I wonder if he got an offer from one.

 

[woofwoofmo]

Best of Luck JL! The consummate professional, his leadership is going to be missed. Great guy with a wonderful family. :cheers:

Funny how Rams will be playing both JL & CL this season. May have to do a road-trip down to the "Big Easy".

 

[BonifayRam]

Looks to be a great place for JL to play IMO. They need a leader on that defense. They need a big name player who will get that respect for the younger rebuilding cadre. I wish him well & success in the Big Easy. JL will be playing with two 2nd yr players(Hau'oli Kikaha/Stephone Anthony)& another vet Dannell Ellerbe.

 

[Ramrasta]

Good signing for the Saints considering their defense was weak there. JL is a defensive field general even if he isn't a star athlete. Wish him the best.

 

[Jorgeh0605]

So sad. But at least now I can get closure now that both Long and James are signed other places.

 

[Dieter the Brock]

Rams all-time leader in tackles
I got a lot of shit for saying JL belongs in amongst the Ram's greats at linebacker and I stick to it - not the most gifted athletically I guess and that's all changing with Tree in the middle,
but for me he is still a Ram for life

 

[Rams Until I Die]

Good for JL, hope he has a good season.

 

[ramfan46]

I hope the Rams run all over them when they play this year.

 

[Ram65]

Always root for the hard working JL55. He missed like 10 plays or something in his Rams career. I'm just guessing but we are talking plays not games.