Los Angeles Rams: 5 Big-name targets in 2018 NFL Free Agency

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FOXBOROUGH, MA – JANUARY 13: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans is tackled by Ricky Jean Francois #94 of the New England Patriots during the fourth quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

5. Ricky Jean-Francois, DT, New England Patriots

It’s safe to say that Ricky Jean Francois has made the rounds when it comes to the National Football League. He began last year adding depth to the defensive front of the Green Bay Packers and finished the 2017 season as a member of the New England Patriots. The veteran performer made his second Super Bowl appearance in six years but he and the Pats came up short.

Originally a seventh-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers back in 2009, the nine-year pro is a veteran of playing in the 3-4. And he’s lined up at various positions along the defensive front. Along with the 49ers, Packers and Patriots, there was also two-year stints with both the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins. He’s managed just 12 sacks with his five different employers and has never been a big pass-rushing threat.

However, what he does offer is depth to a Rams’ defensive line — highlighted by former first-round picks in superstar Aaron Donald and steady nose tackle Michel Brockers — that may not bring back veterans Tyrunn Walker and/or Dominique Easley. Last April, the team used a sixth-round pick on Tanzel Smart and there are a few other young players here. But coordinator Wade Phillips would likely not object to adding a savvy pro with experience in the trenches.

Next: No. 4

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