According to Spotrac, defensive tackle Dominique Easley has agreed to a one year contract worth $1.725 million dollars with the Los Angeles Rams. The new contract is the first round tender that the club provided and will keep him with the team through the 2017 season. Easley spent the first two seasons of his career with the New England Patriots before a shocking release prior to the 2016 season. That led to him signing with the Los Angeles Rams.
Dominique Easley Signs Tender Offer
Easley was the Patriots top draft pick in 2014, selected 29th overall. He came in with much promise and immediately flashed a unique quickness for the defensive tackle position. However, every time his speed led to an increase in playing time, Easley was unable to sustain his level of play because of injuries. He finished each of his two seasons with the Patriots on injured reserve.
Entering the 2015 season, Easley had earned a starting job and appeared to have put a tough rookie season behind him. Easley, however, was injured in the Patriots opening game and would not start again all season. He was released from New England prior to the 2016 season after appearing in just 22 games over two seasons – very unusual for a first round draft pick. His continued injuries may have been a particular concern for the Patriots. Injuries had plagued Easley during his college career also where he suffered two separate season-ending ACL injuries.
Following his release, Easley was signed by the Rams where he had his most productive season as a pro. He was active for all 16 games and recorded three and a half sacks along with 24 tackles.
Easley is entering just his fourth season in the league and still has the ability to contribute as an interior sub rusher in a 4-3 defensive alignment.
