The down and dirty of the LA Rams initial 53-man roster

Offensive linemen (10)

Andrew Whitworth, David Edwards, Brian Allen, Austin Corbett, Rob Haventstein, Joseph Noteboom, Bobby Evans, Tremayne Anchrum, AJ Jackson, Coleman Shelton (+)

Synopsis

This one seems to be aligned according to expectations.  The only point where I believe the Rams may have erred is in the release of undrafted free agent rookie Jordan Meredith, who displayed solid work on the offensive line throughout the preseason, and the retention of Bobby Evans. The organization insists on the persistent and as yet unsuccessful attempt to move him to the interior, while he continues to be an offensive tackle.

At first glance, the LA Rams appear to have a solid and accomplished offensive line. But there are questions and a need for intricate strategy now.  For starters, the Rams installed Brian Allen as the starting center after working Austin Corbett at the position exclusively before the pads went on. Just how good can Brian Allen be this time around? Will he hold up for a 17 game season? While he is bigger and more powerful, his style seems more custom-made for pass blocking and absorbing contact than in initiating contact and getting a strong push for run blocking.

Another area of some strategic importance is the fact that the LA Rams have settled on starting two of five players in the last year of their contract.  If you factor in Andrew Whitworth’s likely retirement after this season and the fact that Joseph Noteboom is his primary backup, then the Rams have one year left on four of their top six offensive linemen.

While the Rams appear to have this all figured out, for now, the 2022 NFL Draft strategy should commit at least three draft picks to be earmarked for drafting offensive linemen.