I've said this in the past and I'll say it again. This is a transition year. Yes, they will be competitive, but they are not ready for the SB yet.
So why did I say time?
New rookie DC. Staley is gonna takes his lumps as he learns on the job. He'll get better as he gets games under his belt.
RBs: the Rams came into the season with a 2nd year back that didn't get alot of run, and a rookie as 2 of their top 3 RBs. Gurley, regardless of his health was going to be missed. They will need time and carries.
Edge: gone is Fowler, the most consistent pass rusher off the edge for the Rams. He is being replaced with Floyd, who has underperformed his lofty draft position and is on a short term deal until they can get a longterm edge to replace him in a year or so. Those options include Obo (not a ton of reps) Terrell Lewis (my favorite longterm answer, but a rookie) Polite (again, lacking reps and has bounced around teams already)
ILB - Again they are replacing a stud in Littleton with Kiser and Kenny Young, who just don't have a ton of in game experience. I also have serious doubts they are a longterm answer.
So what do they need in terms of positions:
lets start with offense
QB - Goff isn't going anywhere. If you want to draft one for the future. Ehlinger from Texas if he comes out after round 1 is my guy. Not polished, but athletic and he's got some ice water in his veins.
RB - They are set here even if Brown goes elsewhere. As I said, they just need time.
WR - They are set with Woods, Kupp and Jefferson in 3 wide sets. I would go hard after a kid like Anthony Schwartz from Auburn later in day 2. He has literal world class speed. 2nd in the Under 20 Worlds. 1st on the 4x100 relay in worlds.Also US junior champ at 100 meters. So yeah, he can take the top off. Big time.If he's even, he's leavin. Or maybe a guy like Marquez Stevenson from Houston on day 3. Cougars use him all over the field and is dangerous with the ball in his hands.
OL - I like everyone but Corbett (and the Rams seem to like him) and Blythe. I could see a new center and they are almost assuredly going to have to find a LT, whether or not he is on the roster (Evans or Noteboom) is TBD
TE - I think the future is Higbee and Hopkins. Everett is too up and down for me. But the position is not high priority.
Defense:
Edge - I think you need a bendy, speed edge rusher. Not sure how or where you find one. I really think Lewis year 2 is the answer. Love his potential.
DL - I think this spot is ok for a year or 2 more
ILB - Kiser and Young (or Howard) are not great. I'd love to add a LBer like Cam McGrone from Michigan on day 2 of the draft.
S - Regardless of JJ3 - the Rams look good a S
CB - look set to me.
So really, ILB, Edge, OC, OT and WR could use a bit of help. The rest of the roster just needs experience or to get healthy/stay healthy.
Don't waste your time looking back, you're not going that way. - Ragnar Lothbrok
