Orlando Pace
Orlando Pace The St. Louis Rams have released longtime offensive tackle and 7-time Pro Bowler Orlando Pace. In a move that cleared about $6 million in salary cap space, the Rams cut the former no. 1 pick overall in the 1997 draft.

Pace started 14 games before suffering a season-ending triceps injury in 2008. Over his 12-year career with St. Louis, Pace appeared in 158 games, including 154 starts.

Rams Owner Chip Rosenbloom released a statement saying that Pace would be remembered as "one of the finest Rams of all-time." Pace blocked for three consecutive MVPs from 1999 to 2001, quarterback Kurt Warner twice in 1999 and 2001 and running back Marshall Faulk in 2000.

"I can't begin to thank Orlando for all he has meant to
the Rams organization since we selected him with the first overall pick in the 1997 draft," said Rosenbloom. "It is never easy to end a relationship that has had as much success as ours, but in the best interest of Orlando and the Rams, we feel now is the right time."

The former Ohio State star was selected to seven straight Pro Bowls from 1999 to 2005 and started in two Super Bowls, including St. Louis' only championship after the 1999 season.

"Orlando Pace has been a mainstay on the Rams' offensive line since he was drafted in 1997," said Rams General Manager Devaney. "He has proven to be one of the most efficient offensive tackles throughout his career."

Devaney went on to thank Pace for his time with the Rams and wished him well in his continued NFL career.