Rams' Jackson to void final year of contract

For the first time in his career, longtime St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson will be able to test the open market.

According to a St. Louis Post-Dispatch report, Jackson will void the final year of his contract in St. Louis and become a free agent. Jackson, who will turn 30 before the season, would have been owed $7 million in the final year of his contract.

The two sides reportedly will continue to discuss an opportunity to bring Jackson back to St. Louis. The Rams, however, must compete with other suitors for the three-time Pro Bowl selection.

Jackson, who not made a playoff appearance since his rookie season, likely will be interested in signing only with contending teams at this stage in his career.

In nine seasons with the Rams, Jackson has eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing eight times and amassed 10,135 yards with 56 rushing touchdowns. His 13,459 yards from scrimmage rank first in the NFL since 2004 and second in club history behind only Isaac Bruce (14,259).