James Laurinaitis
LB -
Week 12 Outlook
Availability
Former Los Angeles Rams and New Orleans Saints linebacker James Laurinaitis announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday.
Fantasy Impact
Laurinaitis announced his retirement via Twitter on Tuesday after playing eight seasons in the NFL. After spending the first seven years of his career with the Rams from 2009-2015, Laurinaitis signed with the Saints in 2016, which turned out to be his final year in the league. The 30-year-old linebacker will finish his career with 663 total tackles, 16.5 sacks, 35 defended passes and 10 interceptions.
The New Orleans Saints and LB James Laurinaitis agreed to terms on a three-year deal according to NFL Insider Rand Getlin.
Fantasy Impact
James Laurinaitis will add much-needed leadership and experience on a Saints' defense that's been disastrous in recent years. The seven-year veteran was unexpectedly released from the Rams early in the offseason and had been one of the lynchpins on their stout defense. Laurinaitis Played in all 16 games in 2015 and finished the year with 109 total tackles, one sack, an interception, one forced fumble and a pass deflection.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport is reporting that the New Orleans Saints are expected to visit with free agent linebacker James Laurinaitis next week.
Fantasy Impact
James Laurinaitis was released from the Los Angeles Rams earlier in the month. The veteran linebacker is expected to garner interest from several teams this offseason.
The Rams have cut James Laurinaitis after seven seasons with the team.
Fantasy Impact
Laurinaitis has been a productive player since being drafted by the Rams in 2009. He had 109 combined tackles last season to go along with one sack, once interception and one forced fumble.
James Laurinaitis is expected to start for the Rams' contest with the Broncos on Sunday after missing practice earlier in the week with a foot injury.
Fantasy Impact
Laurinaitis has seen his tackle numbers decline for three consecutive games but will look to turn things around against the high-powered Denver offense. With only a single sack and zero forced turnovers on the season, Laurinaitis is not useful in any other category.
