NFL Free Agency 2011: St. Louis Rams Sign RB Jerious Norwood

Jim Thomas has reported that the St. Louis Rams have come to an agreement with former Atlanta Falcon running back Jerious Norwood. The exact numbers of the deal aren’t known as of yet, but expect a 1-year deal in the $3 million range.

The move reunites Norwood with his old college coach, Rams’ running back coach Sylvester Croom, and gives St Louis an explosive weapon that should be adequately utilized in OC Josh McDaniels’ system.

His speed and shiftiness make him dangerous in open space, and his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield should present him with plenty of opportunity to showcase his skills.

Don’t expect the Rams to be done signing running backs yet, however.

While Norwood is electrifying, his history of injuries (including missing 14 games in 2010 due to a knee injury) will not make him an attractive option for RB Steven Jackson’s backup.

One option some were contemplating was the signing of both Norwood and Ronnie Brown, but Brown signed with the Eagles this afternoon, putting any hope of the Wildcat offense coming to St. Louis to rest.

Other backs the Rams could still consider at this point are Jerome Harrison, Cadillac Williams, or perhaps someone else they could acquire via trade (Steve Slaton anyone?).

With Norwood coming in, however, the Rams now appear to have a kick/punt returner with home-run potential who can also be effective on offense when utilized properly. While this isn’t a huge signing, it certainly is a positive one for the young, rising Rams.

This Article was originally posted on RantSports.com