7 urgent Los Angeles Rams roster needs

Priority VI- Defensive lineman

With the exodus of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, the LA Rams defense may be undergoing a transformation out of the 3-4 and towards a 4-3. In either scenario, it’s easy to recognize that defensive tackle Aaron Donald will stand out. After all, he’s earned his 5th All-Pro title in just his 6th NFL season, a huge accomplishment never before seen in the league.

But Donald draws the attention of blockers.  So the other defensive linemen should benefit from single blockers, right?  Well, that hasn’t been the history so far.  When the Rams signed Ndamukong Suh, they finally had the two player threat.  That was, coincidentally, the season Donald registered over 20 sacks.

That highlights the benefit of upgrading defensive line talent around Donald.  No offensive line can manage Donald’s presence if they are focused on two defenders at once.  While the purse will not support huge free agent signings, there may be room to tweak one or two role players for this team.  A solid defensive lineman like Michael Bennett or Tim Jernigan should come in moderately priced, and would flourish when lined up next to Donald.

The team may also benefit from the emerging Greg Gaines as well.  That would certainly help out this defense as well. And with limited dollars and draft picks, sorely needed.