Rams Cut Franchise LT Pace

The St. Louis Rams have parted ways with their franchise left tackle and former number-one overall pick of the 1997 draft. The release of the oft-injured Orlando Pace will save the team $6 Million in cap space. The Rams were 2-14 last season and hold the second overall pick in this years draft and may be looking to use it on a new franchise left tackle.

Pace was the first offensive lineman chosen No. 1 overall since the Minnesota Vikings took Ron Yary in the 1968 draft. The Rams dealt four draft picks -- a first-, third-, fourth- and seventh-rounder -- to the New York Jets for the right to move up five spots on draft day.

"I can't begin to thank Orlando for all he has meant to the Rams organization," Owner Chip Rosenbloom said. "It is never easy to end a relationship that has had as much success as ours, but in the interest of Orlando and the Rams, we feel now is the right time."

Pace blocked for three consecutive MVPs from 1999-2001, quarterback Kurt Warner in 1999 and 2001 and running back Marshall Faulk in 2000, durin g St. Louis' run as the 'Greatest Show on Turf '.