Dissecting the St Louis Rams: Defensive End

The St Louis Rams have a wonderful defensive line. Fisher has made sure that, if anything, his team will be stacked up front. Fisher already inherited some depth, but added to it over the years, adding Michael Brockers and Aaron Donald over the last few drafts.

There are high expectations for the defensive line in 2015, after a slow start in 2014. Fans have deemed St Louis as “sack city”, and expect having no less than at least 50 sacks. The defensive ends have been a focal point of the Rams since they came into the league, and have kept true to that tradition even in the current horrendous ten year span.

Nov 30, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive end Chris Long (91) tries to get past Oakland Raiders tackle Khalif Barnes (69) during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. St. Louis defeated Oakland 52-0. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Long

An obvious fan favorite and twitter guru, Chris Long has had some heavy shoes to fill. Being the son of hall of fame defensive lineman Howie Long has to come with its share of pressure. Chris didn’t hold back though. He hadn’t missed a single game until the 2014 season, and instantly became known for his leadership and high motor.

Chris isn’t going to run you over, or blow by you on the edge. He is smart, and uses film to know what you’re going to do and when you are going to do it. Chris studies hard and works hard, which has led to multiple double digit sack seasons. Chris does indeed have a high motor. He sets the edge almost every time, and will often chase players downfield if they do manage to get by him. Chris usually doesn’t dominate the line, but has a much more unique way of handling getting to the quarterback. Chris knows how to push the right buttons. He will make you think you have him beat, but then before you can even start to think, he’s found a way by you.

Chris is actively involved in his new charity, as well as others. His special with William Hayes aired earlier today on Sports Center, which was about homeless awareness. He has become a Brian Urlacher type influence, which allows others around him to play better.

Chris is getting up there in age, but make no mistake, he could very well one day be joining his dad in Canton.

Nov 30, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive end Robert Quinn (94) tries to get past Oakland Raiders tackle Donald Penn (72) during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. St. Louis defeated Oakland 52-0. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Robert Quinn

The new record holder for the Rams in sacks has come a long way. From a brain tumor that could have ended his life, to pro bowls and record breaking seasons, Quinn is a marvel of a player.

Quinn was a risk coming out of the draft. He had a medical history of illness, and was suspended his junior year at North Carolina for receiving ineligible Benefits. Personally, I’m not complaining, as this allowed Quinn to drop to the middle of the round, where St Louis gladly took him.

Robert Quinn is a marvel of an athlete. He has a fantastic frame size, with a quick first step and great speed. This allows him to get around blockers effortlessly. Quinn has a great ability to strip the football, and has the athletic ability to make plays on the ball after it has come out. Quinn has worked hard to bulk up and improve his run defense, which is still not at its ceiling, but has gotten considerably better.

Quinn will continue to get better and better. He is a great man, both on the football field and off.

Nov 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) runs from St. Louis Rams defensive end Eugene Sims (97) durign the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Eugene Sims

Sims doesn’t see many snaps, but still manages to squeeze a few sacks a year out and has wonderful size to hold his own in the run game. Due to his age though, Fisher will have some very difficult decisions coming up on who will help fill in for the aging Chris Long.

Nov 3, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Jake Locker (10) attempts a pass as St. Louis Rams defensive end William Hayes (95) pressures during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. The Titans defeated the Rams 28-21. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

William Hayes

A great guy on both parts of the football field, Hayes joins many others in making the trip over from Nashville. Hayes is a great pass rusher, who has a healthy dose of both finesse and power. Hayes is already at the 30 year mark, making him a veteran presence for newcomers to the team.

May 8, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive end Martin Ifedi (96) runs through drills with tackle Rob Havenstien (79) during rookie minicamp at Rams Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Martin Ifedi

This could likely be Longs replacement in a couple of years. Ifedi has a high motor and plays until the whistle. He is powerful and works very hard. With a couple of years under Gregg Williams, he could be something special.

The Rams have great starters and reliable back ups. They will have to start thinking about the future soon, but for now, have two ends capable of making Canton.

Official Grade: A

Next: Chris Long, William Hayes Go Undercover as Homeless

More from Ramblin' Fan

Home/Rams News