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Rams Release Jake Long, Scott Wells

ST. LOUIS (AP) — The St. Louis Rams released starting offensive linemen Jake Long and Scott Wells on the eve of free agency, freeing $12.5 million in salary cap space.

Both players have been injury-prone.

Offensive line was a target in free agency for St. Louis before making the moves Monday. A third lineman, tackle Joe Barksdale, is an unrestricted free agent.

Long, the first overall pick in 2008 and a four-time Pro Bowler, missed nine games last season with a second torn ACL in two years. Wells started every game but was hampered throughout by a right arm injury that had him wearing a brace much of the year.

Wells started 35 games in three seasons, missing 12 games in 2012 and 2013, and Long made 22 starts in two seasons.

The Rams will rebuild the line around tackle Greg Robinson, the second overall pick last year who'll start at left tackle — Long's spot.

"Jake and Scott brought experience and professionalism to our program and we appreciate that commitment and hard work," coach Jeff Fisher said in a statement. "Both of them overcame injury difficulties and provided leadership for our younger players. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for both of them."

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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL

(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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