Barnes returns to Rams on one-year deal
By Jim Thomas
http://www.stltoday.com/sports/football/professional/barnes-returns-to-rams-on-one-year-deal/article_32131231-8dc1-51b4-8601-67cdfeaddc07.html
After paying a free-agent visit Monday to the Kansas City Chiefs, Tim Barnes has decided to stay put on the other side of the state. Barnes, a former University of Missouri player, has agreed to terms on a one-year deal that will keep him with the Rams.
It’s a one-year deal with a maximum value of $1 million; Barnes is expected to sign the deal Tuesday.
Barnes, 26, was not tendered by the Rams as a restricted free agent this offseason, making him the equivalent of an unrestricted free agent. But all along, the Rams kept the door open that he could re-sign with the team at a reduced rate.
Barnes, 6-4, 306, has played in 45 NFL games, mostly on special teams over three seasons with the Rams. But he did start four games at center to end the 2013 season in place of the injured Scott Wells against Arizona, New Orleans, Tampa Bay, and Seattle.
He spent most of the 2011 season on the Rams’ practice squad.
At worst, Barnes provides needed interior line depth. At best, he can compete for a starting job at center and possibly guard.