Offensive lineman Austin Blythe joined the Los Angeles Rams via waivers in 2017. Cut by the Indianapolis Colts that year after playing eight games in 2016, he went on to play in 47 out of 48 regular season games in three seasons with L.A.
Blythe was especially important to the Rams offensive line that endured an uncharacteristic amount of injuries this season. The former Iowa standout began the season as the team's starting right guard, then moved over to center after Brian Allen suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 10. Blythe's poise helped the Rams adjust and eventually allow a league-low 22 sacks.
Now, Blythe is scheduled to become a free agent when the new league year arrives March 18.
So what are the options for both him and the Rams this offseason?
Los Angeles can of course re-sign him. If he departs, there are couple options internally for L.A. to replace him.
The one that immediately comes to mind is Allen, who was the team's starting center prior to that injury, once healthy.
Another possibility could be Austin Corbett. While he played left tackle in college, his pre-draft evaluation indicated he was capable of transition to an interior spot along the offensive line. He took over starting left guard duties after flipping positions with rookie David Edwards and held his own there, but the Rams also haven't gotten a chance to see him play center yet.
Given how Blythe's versatility and communication helped the Rams overcome injuries to their offensive line, though, a return would be beneficial to both him and the organization – whether it's at center or guard. At a minimum, his experience would be helpful for a line that lacked it in the early stages of the 2019 season.
