With the ever-evolving use of social media and the Internet, professional athletes now have a platform to interact with fans and to keep their fans updated on what is going on in their lives. In accordance with the National Football League, this can allow certain players to post news regarding a signing or contract extension.
The Los Angeles Rams are now in the midst of their transition back to southern California, bringing back professional football for the first time in 21 years. Although the stadium isn’t built, the mecca of Los Angeles has slated the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum as the temporary home of the Rams.
As head coach Jeff Fisher and his staff begins to assemble rosters heading into training camp, a lot of negotiations go on between the coaches and free agents attempting to garner a roster spot.
One ongoing negotiation involves free agency safety Donte Whitner, a 10-year veteran of league looking for a new team. The 31-year-old collected one forced fumble, 1.5 sacks, four passes defended and 58 tackles in 14 games played for the Cleveland Browns last season.
The Ohio native has played for three teams during his 10-year career, attempting to find a fourth home for the upcoming 2016 season.
Whitner, who remains active on social media, took to Twitter to address the potential end of his free agency, courtesy of his Twitter account:
— DonteHitner (@DonteWhitner) May 4, 2016
The former San Francisco 49er and Buffalo Bill also provided some clarity as to a possible official release:
@stevensutton0 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿 soon
— DonteHitner (@DonteWhitner) May 4, 2016
While the move hasn’t been made official, it allows fans and experts alike to speculate. At the end of the day, the move could be kept in wraps because the Rams do not want to give away any draft speculations, or it could be catered towards the financial aspect.
Nick Wagoner of ESPN’s NFL Nation provided clarity as to the hold up for the Rams:
Some have asked about Rams and S Donte Whitner. Team is hoping for deal but nothing done yet. Team not yet comfortable with price tag.
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) April 28, 2016
Whitner has also used the social media platform to provide further clues about his interest in the Rams. The hard-hitting safety has been tweeted out 310, which is coincidentally the area code of Los Angeles.
Although defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is a fan of physical safeties, the move could simply be a financial discussion that hasn’t yet reached an agreement.
