Brandon Gibson

Quarterback Sam Bradford is learning his third offense in three NFL seasons — from his third coordinator, no less. But at first blush, the transition may be easier than expected.

"I like the offense that we're running this year," Bradford said Tuesday. "It's more similar to two years ago than to last year. There is some carryover, so I am somewhat familiar with it, which makes it nice trying to learn it again."
Bradford, speaking after the Rams' first minicamp practice of the spring, said there are even some similarities in the language and play-calling from his rookie season of 2010, when Pat Shurmur was offensive coordinator. There is another similarity to 2010, when Bradford was NFL offensive rookie of the year: a position coach.

"I'm glad that we have a quarterbacks coach now," Bradford said, referring to Frank Cignetti. "Obviously, with Josh (McDaniels) trying to do both last year I think it was just a lot for him to handle. Sometimes some of the little things such as drops, footwork, throwing mechanics kind of got put aside as opposed to putting reads and everything in front. ... I think it's going to be great for my development."

With a full offseason to learn an already familiar offense, Bradford is a candidate to bounce back in 2012, but the Rams will need to add some talent at WR. Right now, Bradford's top targets are Danario Alexander, Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson, with Steve Smith as the only newcomer thus far.