7 urgent Los Angeles Rams roster needs

Priority V – Setting the Edge rushers

The Los Angeles Rams defense has some of the biggest names in the NFL right now.  Of course, we’ve just discussed efforts to re-sign Dante Fowler Jr. and the cost to do so.  The Rams also boast Michael Brockers at defensive end.  Fowler and Brockers accounted for 121 tackles and 14.5 sacks.  That is a lot of production at risk of walking out the door during free agency.

Right now, the Rams are stuck in the limbo of emphasizing pass rush or snuffing out receivers.  With the Rams defensive backs including Jalen Ramsey, Taylor Rapp, Nikell Robey-Coleman and Troy Hill, they have incredible pass defense skills while the ball is in the air.  And with Donald anchoring that defensive line, perhaps the Rams should tweak the defensive scheme just a bit.

It would be far more economical to focus on strong defenders who hold their ground, both in the middle of the line and on the edge.  Rather than the thoroughbred speed rusher from the outside, a stronger defensive end whose responsibility is to set the edge, turn plays in, and collapse the pocket.

If the Rams do convert to a 4-3, that pretty much translates the defense into a contain pocket by design. While the Rams do not have 4-3 personnel just yet, some players would convert with less difficulty than others..