The Facts: The Rams have had a steady dialogue with the agent for Clayton about a contract extension, although it's uncertain if a new deal can be worked out before a possible lockout March 4.

Diehards Line:The Rams have exclusive negotiating rights with Clayton until the start of the new league year March 4. In a normal year, once March 4 arrives, any team can try to sign Clayton as an unrestricted free agent. But this isn't a normal year. Unless there's a new collective bargaining agreement by the end of the day March 3, no player can be signed (or traded) by any team. ... Acquired in a Sept. 6 trade with Baltimore, Clayton had a surprising impact early in the 2010 season, adding much-needed downfield speed plus an ability to get yards after the catch. But a patellar tendon injury early in Week 5 against Detroit ended Clayton's season -- he finished with 23 catches for 306 yards. Surgery and rehab followed, but Clayton should be full speed well before the start of training camp. ... Stay tuned.