Cory Littleton could very well continue his playing career elsewhere going forward. Should that prove the case, though, the Los Angeles Rams have ensured they will be compensated for one of their best players leaving in free agency.

The Rams announced on Tuesday that they have placed a second-round tender on Littleton, a restricted free agent, meaning any team with which he signs a new contract will be mandated to send the Rams draft compensation.

The team also placed original-round tenders on safety Blake Countess, running back Malcolm Brown, and cornerback Troy Hill.

Littleton emerged as full-time starter for the first time in his career last season. He finished with 125 tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks, four quarterback hits, three interceptions – including one that was returned for a touchdown – and a whopping 13 passes defensed, quickly establishing himself as one of the NFL's most versatile young defenders.

The 25 year old was named to his first Pro Bowl as a result, and was also selected Second Team All-Pro.

Undrafted in 2016 out of the University of Washington, Littleton signed a three-year, $1.63 million deal with the Rams on May 4th, 2016. He went on to play in all 16 regular season games as a rookie at outside linebacker, earning one start.

A regime change the following season is what really elevated Littleton's career, though, as he made the switch to inside linebacker in Wade Phillips' 3-4 scheme, allowing the 228-pounder to more easily mitigate the effects of his diminutive stature.

The Rams were busy on the opening day of the league's legal tampering period, agreeing to terms with star safety Eric Weddle and bringing back pass-rusher Dante Fowler on a one-year deal.