I don't think Phillips runs the classic 3-4 in which the Ends are essentially run-first DEs, and therefore whatever rush there is comes from OLBs. Or that it is the front 3's job to keep Oline off the LBs. Rather his ideal is penetrating DTs (at DE) that play the run well, but can rush the passer and get into the backfield to disrupt.
I think that's why they especially hung on to Easley, because he is not a NT.
Perhaps I'm wrong, but that's the impression I get from Phillips and from listening to others.
So that being the case, I see Longacre as a good fit.
Wouldn't surprise me to see Chris Long approached if the money was rather small and it was a 1 or 2 year deal, since he fills that role pretty well.
If anything, the Rams need another OLB.