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Team Needs: The St. Louis Rams
Columnist Court Weston will be breaking down the team needs for all 32 NFL teams this off-season. Next up, the Rams…
St. Louis Rams (2-14)
1. Wide Receiver – Other than the offensive line, a good receiving corps is a quarterback’s best friend. However, the Rams lack talent and depth at the position of wideout. By trading for former Denver Broncos pro bowler Brandon Lloyd, St. Louis finally landed a downfield threat. The only problem is that Lloyd is a free agent now, and is reportedly being pursued by New England, which would be a difficult opportunity to turn down with the Pats having just played in the Super Bowl. The Rams desperately need to get stronger at this position, especially if they cannot re-sign Lloyd.
2. Defensive Tackle – In a game of the trenches, St. Louis lost. The Rams gave up the second most rushing yards in the league this year, meaning they need to get stronger up front. Picking up Justin Bannan to pair with Fred Robbings looked good on paper, but Bannan would be much more effective as a back-up.
3. Left Tackle – This position is the second-highest paid spot on NFL rosters for a reason: protecting the quarterback, the highest paid spot. Mark LeVoir simply is not an elite tackle. When the quarterback, who looked outstanding as a rookie, is constantly injured and posts far worse stats, it is safe to bet he did not have time in the pocket. Drafting a left tackle early makes sense for this team.
4. Outside Linebacker – It was apparent that the Rams lacked speed on defense, and the linebackers were unable to contain opposing teams’ running backs from beating them to the outside. St. Louis should either sign or draft an outside linebacker to help improve the defense’s side-to-side speed and move Brady Poppinga either to an inside linebacker position or put him on the bench.
5. Offensive Guard – The Rams already have an elite running back in Steven Jackson, but imagine what he could do behind an elite offensive line. Jacob Bell is a free agent, and after underachieving in St. Louis, the spot is open for improvement. Finding a solid starter to help pave the way for Jackson to run wild as well as protect Sam Bradford in the pocket should be among the team’s top priorities this off-season.
Previously: The Indianapolis Colts
Next: The Minnesota Vikings
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