The Denver Broncos have officially released SS T.J. Ward according to Ian Rapaport:
The #Broncos have informed three-time Pro Bowler and all-pro safety TJ Ward that he’s been released, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 2, 2017
Now, this is sort of a shocker, because Ward was still a very productive player and locker room leader. At the same time, the Broncos do have a young pair of safeties that are ready to see more game action.
You may ask why this is relevant news for the Los Angeles Rams, and that makes sense. The Rams may be very pleased with their safety combo of Maurice Alexander and Lamarcus Joyner. What does this have to do with the Rams? Well, new Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips coached Ward in Denver for years. For a productive player, a team leader, and now veteran free agent who knows his defense in and out, the Rams and Phillips could very well come knocking on T.J. Ward’s door.
Eric Edholm also speculates that the interest between the Rams and Ward may very well be a real thing:
Been told to keep eye on T.J. Ward to #Rams if Broncos let him walk.
Multiple teams would be interested.
— Eric Edholm (@Eric_Edholm) September 2, 2017