Slater Picks Rams’ ‘Sweetened’ Offer

Tackle Jackie Slater, teased by a contract proposal from the Falcons, decided Friday to remain with the Rams after the team “sweetened” its one-year offer.

The Rams offered Slater, who earned $1.365 million last season, a $500,000 base salary; the Falcons offered $700,000 with an additional $350,000 in incentive opportunities.

After it appeared that Slater was leaning toward the Falcons, the Rams added an incentive package if he plays more than 50% of the time in 1994.

“Our entire organization is happy to have him back,” said John Shaw, Ram executive vice president. “It’s only fitting that an All-Pro player and potential Hall of Famer finish his career where it started.”

Slater, who has played 18 years, was in Mississippi visiting relatives and is expected to return early next week to sign the one-year deal.

“We have an agreement in principle with the Rams,” said Steve Feldman, an Orange County attorney who represents Slater. “It appeared he was headed to the Falcons, but the Rams stepped up, sweetened their offer and made it clear they wanted him back.”

Feldman said the Rams have also reached an agreement on a one-year contract with defensive lineman David Rocker, who played in 14 games as a reserve.