Ray Rice, who hasn't played an NFL game since 2013, is close to signing a new contract according to reports. Per TMZ, Rice's agents are in the midst of "serious talks" that will get the three-time Pro Bowler back in an NFL uniform.
"Rice's agents have engaged with multiple teams recently - and we're told there are serious discussions among team decision-makers about the possibility of bringing him on board," a source told TMZ. "He will be back on the field very soon with some team ... I can guarantee that."
Check out Ray Rice at Rutgers' spring game
Rice was initially suspended two games for striking his then-fiancee Janay Palmer in an Atlantic City elevator, but then cut by the Baltimore Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL once video of the incident hit the internet.
These three teams are the best football fits for Rice.
Dallas Cowboys
There is very little chance of this happening, despite Dallas' fantastic offensive line and the hole created by DeMarco Murray's departure. Rice was providing diminishing production even before the domestic violence. In 2013 he was held to 3.1 yards per carry, and 660 yards for the year. It was the first time since 2009 he failed to exceed 1,000 yards. Dallas offers the line and potent passing game to relieve pressure on him to carry the offense.
The public relations hit might simply be too great. This offseason Dallas signed Greg Hardy, who was embroiled in his own horrific legal battle involving domestic violence. It's unlikely America's Team wants to become a safe haven for damaged reputations, so for as much sense as Rice makes on the field, he makes that little sense off it.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons just let go of veteran Steven Jackson, and while they need to upgrade the position, No. 8 overall seems like a high price for one of the NFL's most interchangeable positions. Ray Rice makes sense here, since he has less wear and tear than Jackson did, but he has similar receiving ability out of the backfield. That should mesh with Atlanta's pass-happy offense.
New England Patriots
No team is better built to handle distractions than the Patriots, and they do have a need at running back. LeGarrette Blount is one-dimensional, Jonas Gray unproven, and Brandon Bolden too ordinary. Rice has been a star in the NFL, and even if he is shot, it won't cost the Pats much to find out.
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