Quintin

Mikell

Mikell was knocked out of St. Louis’ Week 5 Thursday night win over the Cardinals, but the extra days off enabled him to heal up without missing any practice time. In the second year of a four-year, $27 million deal, Mikell has 27 tackles through five games.

Mikell took a knee to the head from his own teammate, which jarred his neck. He was on the field for a minute or two before sitting up and walking off the field. Darian Stewart would be in line to replace Mikell.

It’s an indication they remain open to the idea of re-signing Mikell despite cutting him in March. The Rams would probably take back Mikell for a veteran minimum salary. For now, they’re auditioning third-round pick T.J. McDonald as the starting strong safety. The free safety job is wide open to competition.

He’s unlikely to play this Sunday.

Hunter was typically incompetent after coming over from the Jets, and has no chance at collecting his currently scheduled $3.95 million in 2013. The Rams are absolutely desperate for depth along their offensive line, but it’s quite possible the soon-to-be 32-year-old Hunter is simply cut loose. The Rams’ official website also expects SS Quintin Mikell to be asked to slash his $6 million salary, but the odds are high Mikell is granted his outright release.

As is the case with Steven Jackson, the Rams want Mikell back but only at a lower rate. Although Mikell had a fine season with 114 tackles, three sacks and forced four fumbles, his $6 million salary will count $9 million against the cap. Due $4 million, OT Wayne Hunter will have to restructure as well.

Mikell is due a $6 million salary and counts $9 million against the cap. Free agent SS Craig Dahl is not expected to be re-signed. So, the Post-Dispatch says it’s “possible - some say likely” that the Rams will be looking for two new safeties this offseason. Mikell had a fine season as an in-the-box safety, so he could be asked to restructure. He’ll land on his feet if he’s cut.

Mikell graded out as a top-five safety in Pro Football Focus’ 2012 ratings, but he’s going on age 33 and was owed $6 million. The Rams do not value aging safeties enough to pay them that kind of coin. They now have needs at both safety spots and figure to pursue free agents like Louis Delmas, Kenny Phillips, Pat Chung, and Chris Clemons. Mikell should not lack for suitors because he can still play. He racked up 101 tackles, three sacks, and four forced fumbles last season.

Mikell was released over the weekend. He was due $6 million, and it’s unclear if the Rams even approached him about a pay cut. Mikell shouldn’t lack for suitors, so a return to the Rams on a cheaper deal might be last resort. The Rams made an offer to free agent S Louis Delmas on Wednesday, but he skipped town.