Rams 1st unofficial depth chart holds unexpected surprises worth discussing

Interior Offensive Line

Starters: Jonah Jackson, Steve Avila, Kevin Dotson

Backups: Mike McCalister, Logan Bruss, Zach Thomas

Next in line: Beaux Limmer, Justin Dedich, Grant Miller, ALEC LINDSTROM

I have to admit that I was more than mildly surprised to see Beaux Limmer's name not listed as a backup in the first unofficial Rams depth chart. But on a happy note, that will mean seeing plenty of Beaux go in preseason games. And yes, that alone is enough to get me excited for each and every preseason game on the team's schedule.

But let's not gloss over the fact that seldom mentioned IOL Logan Bruss is entrenched as a bona fide backup in the team's maiden depth chart. Was that simply out of respect for the rough water under the bridge for the beset veteran? Or is that due to his impressive but unreported performance in training camp this season?

I continue to admire the team's depth at the interior of the offensive line. As it now stands, both Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson have been mentioned separately by NFL analysts as being in an ideal position for a Pro Bowl season. I think this group will see significant changes before the initial 53-man roster cuts arrive. I like Beaux Limmer and Alec Lindstrom's chances to improve their position on the depth chart.

Defensive Line:

Starters: Kobie Turner, Bobby Brown III,

Backups: Braden Fiske, Larrell Murchison

Next in line: Tuli Letuligasenoa, David Olajiga, Cory Durden, Tyler Davis, Desjuan Johnson, Anthony Goodlaw

This is a rather major surprise. Rather than default with a standard 3-4 defensive depth chart, the Rams initial depth chart defaults to the team's nickel package with a 2-4-5 configuration. But if you need to insert a third, fourth, or more defensive linemen, the team will almost certainly be tapping multiple players currently shown in the 'Next in line,' category.

Based on what we know so far, the Rams likely consider NT Tyler Johnson, DE Desjuan Johnson, and DE Anthony Goodlaw as backups at this point in time as well, particularly if the team deploys a 3-4-4 or 5-1-5 configuration. And despite the fact that the team shows two starters and only two backups, the team will carry six defensive linemen on the initial 53-man roster.

This group could be one of the most entertaining in preseason. If the team goes with the above depth chart to determine who plays in preseason games, fans are in for a real treat as second-year DE Desjuan Johnson, as well as rookies Tyler Davis and Anthony Goodlaw may see plenty of action.