"The scouting combine begins next week in Indianapolis. The Rams' offseason conditioning program opens March 15. The NFL Draft is just 64 days away.

Front and center in the team's decision-making will be the quarterback position. The Rams currently have three quarterbacks under contract: Marc Bulger, Keith Null and Mike Reilly. There has been speculation regarding Eagles quarterback Michael Vick. They also could select a quarterback in the draft.

Bulger is scheduled to be paid $8.5 million in 2010, but absent a salary cap there is little financial urgency to move quickly. Trades can be made in the league beginning on March 5. However, when the offseason workouts begin, having some direction at the position is important.

The Rams have downplayed the report that Bulger cleaned out his locker because many players do that at the end of the season. However, sources close to Bulger have said it was done because he doesn't expect to be back, not because of anything he was told by the team.

Addressing the media Tuesday, coach Steve Spagnuolo said he has talked with Bulger since the end of the season, but not about football.

Said Spagnuolo, "He was here a couple of weeks ago. We just sat down and visited, nothing football wise. I want to say we shared texts a couple of weeks ago, but I can't remember. I'm getting really good with the texting deal, so I go back and forth with the guys when I can."

Asked whether it's possible Bulger will be back as the team's quarterback, Spagnuolo said, "I see all the scenarios. I've said this before; I have a great deal of respect for Marc. I think he's a good football player. He's a competitor. I know he's grabbing me on the sidelines with suggestions all the time and it's not just quarterbacking play. Marc has a contract. Marc's on this football team."

With the first selection in the draft April 22, the Rams have a lot of evaluating to do before deciding on their direction. Choosing a quarterback is one option not being dismissed.

When the scenario of drafting a quarterback and playing him immediately was broached, Spagnuolo didn't blink."