RAMS : McGee Released, but He Might Return

In a move that probably foreshadows his return at a lower salary but allows every other team in the league an unrestricted shot at a veteran runner, the Rams have released fullback Buford McGee.

Sources say McGee, who was scheduled to earn about $575,000 this season under his current deal, has been negotiating with the club to rejoin them at a salary more in tune with his projected status as a veteran role player in Coach Chuck Knox’s plans.

If no other team claims him off waivers, McGee is free to negotiate with anybody.

McGee, 31, signed a two-year deal before last season that reflected his 1990 production, when he was voted the team’s most valuable player after rushing for a 5.3-per-carry average and catching 45 passes.

But last season, still suffering from an end-of-1990 wrist injury, McGee dropped to 65 rushing yards and 20 receptions.

He was not protected during this spring’s Plan B period in favor of younger players such as Ernie Thompson, a leading candidate to start at fullback this season, and David Lang.