Steven Jackson to walk away from Rams: Report By The Sports Xchange

Rams running back Steven Jackson charges through the Vikings defence at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Miss., Dec. 16, 2012. (SARAH CONARD/Reuters)

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson is planning to enter the free-agent market next month by voiding the final year of his contract, according to a report.

The Rams’ career rushing leader will take his first crack at free agency starting March 12, but the pending move is not a surprise considering the Rams apparently were not ready to pay Jackson the $7 million that he’s scheduled to receive in 2013, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Jackson, 29, has spent his entire career with the Rams after he was drafted in 2004. And there’s still a chance to could remain in St. Louis. If he does go elsewhere, a possible destination could be Atlanta, according to the Post-Dispatch. The Falcons are planning to release veteran running back Michael Turner.

The Post-Dispatch reported that the Rams met with Jackson’s agent at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis to discuss the potential for a new deal.

Jackson finished the 2012 season with 1,042 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 257 carries, boosting his career totals to 10,135 yards and 56 TDs.