Quarterback Pagel Is Signed by Rams

Seeking to jump the gun on a possible rule change, the Rams signed veteran quarterback Mike Pagel to a one-year deal Monday and suggested that Pagel might compete with Chuck Long for the main backup spot.

Later this week, the NFL will decide whether to allow teams an extra roster spot expressly for a third quarterback. Last year, the Rams kept only Jim Everett and Long.

Last week, the Rams held workouts for both Pagel, 30, who started three games for the Cleveland Browns last season and started 47 games in four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, and Steve Grogan, 37.

Ram Coach John Robinson said Pagel knows the team may not keep three quarterbacks if the extra-quarterback rule fails to pass. But he added that Long will not simply be handed the backup slot.