Rating The St Louis Rams Draft Needs
By Nic Moody
With the draft only two weeks away, many St Louis Rams fans grow anxious of who the team will take or what they will do. The Rams have always made the draft interesting, notably in the Fisher era. So trying to guess what will go down on draft day is like shooting baskets in the dark, with no goal post. In other words, good luck.
That brings up a great opportunity to assess just how bad each position is needed for the Rams to fill in the draft. So without further interruption, let us dive right in.
Quarterback: 2/5
This is such a hard score to give, and I know many are going to argue to the bone that quarterback is an absolute must need for the Rams. The reasoning for my score is this; I trust Foles.
I wrote an article about if Nick Foles was the future, and in that article I stated that I thought he was. I am a huge fan of his game, his work ethic, and his attitude. So if you are not like me, (which is completely fine) and do not quite buy in to the whole “Foles” vibe, then I can completely understand why this score would be a 4/5 or even a 5/5 for some fans.
Running Back: 1/5
There just isn’t any need here at all. With Mason, Stacey, Cunningham, and Watts, I just have no idea why the Rams couldn’t try out the old “quadruple headed monster” attack.
Wide Receiver: 2/5
Another tough one. I really like the development of the Rams receivers last year. Quick emerging, Bailey getting snaps. I truly believe that the Rams receiver corps will have a better year with a first string quarterback at the helm, so thats why the need is so low. The reason I increased it to a “two” instead of “one” is I am unsure of how Quick will recover from his injury. Other than that I am content.
Tight End: 1/5
I don’t see much need here. Jared Cook is at the top of receiving most years, and the Rams signed Lance Kendricks back. Let us also not forget the very underrated Harkey as well.
Offensive Line: 5/5
So much need here. I think it’s pretty obvious that with three spots still needed on the starting line and still lacking in depth, at least half of the Rams picks should be O-Line.
Defensive End: 1/5
In no way do we need to bulk up our line. I wouldn’t be distraught or surprised if Fisher did, but there isn’t much of a need.
Defensive Tackle: 1/5
Again just no need. Depth is nice, but with three first round picks up front, I think the Rams will be fine.
Linebackers: 3/5
Dont let the stat fool you. I am thrilled with where the starters are at right now for St Louis, assuming its Ayers, Laurinaitis, and Ogletree. What I am not happy about is the depth. There is room for competition and could easily be obtained with a 4-5th round pick.
Cornerback: 3/5
I am fine with the starters again here, I just do not care for the depth behind the starting three. I say take a cornerback that can give competition to Brandon Mcgee.
Free Safety: 1/5
Clearly the better of the two safety spots on the team. Current depth chart is Rodney Mcleod, Lamarcus Joyner, and Mark Barron.
Strong Safety: 2/5
I love Mcdonald, but the backups Davis and Alexander have not proved anything yet. Bring in the competition. I gave a one point break to this position just because either Joyner or Barron could switch to SS.
Kicker: 2/5
I love Greg the Leg, but is there any harm in bringing in a undrafted rookie for pre-season competition?
Punter: 5/5
This is a must need for the Rams. Hekker just has not proved himself in the last few years and is making way too much money. Just because you can throw well does NOT mean you can get paid like a quarterback.
Just Kidding there, obviously Hekker is loved and his pro bowl seasons show that. Have to have a little fun right?
So that is my assessment of the needs. I am thrilled that the Rams have so much young talent to develop. If they can hit the key points of the draft, (offensive line) then this will be a dangerous year for anyone facing the Rams this upcoming season.
I would love to hear any differences you the reader have. Maybe you think quarterback is higher, or that wide receiver IS a big need. Just please refrain from any name calling and I would love to hear the fans take on the upcoming draft.
Next: St Louis Rams Pre-Draft Visits