The Los Angeles Rams not only announced that they are releasing running back Todd Gurley, but outside linebacker Clay Matthews as well.
The move to release Matthews, who was in the final year of the two-year contract he signed with the Rams last offseason, saves the team around $3.75 million.
Matthews missed three games in his lone season with the Rams due to a broken jaw, but in 13 games played, he was still able to produce 37 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, eight sacks and two forced fumbles.
L.A.’s defense will be looking a lot different in 2020 under new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley after the departures of Cory Littleton, Dante Fowler Jr., Michael Brockers, Nickell Robey-Coleman and now Matthews.
They have brought in a pair of players to begin replacing that group, signing former Chicago Bears edge rusher Leonard Floyd and former Detroit Lions defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson.
Matthews now hits the open market at 33 years of age. He proved in 2019 that he still has plenty left in the tank though, so should not have a problem latching on with another team.
The release of Gurley was a bit more surprising considering he has been one of the faces of the Rams franchise since their move to L.A. General manager Les Snead is essentially admitting his mistakes and cutting ties now, saving money in the process even if the team’s roster is not as talented in 2020.
