It has been a busy offseason for the Los Angeles Rams as they worked to limit the amount of turnover to this roster. Although they may have suffered some notable losses on both sides of the ball, they are still well-equipped to compete for a Super Bowl as soon as the 2021 NFL season.
Of course, there are still some voids to fill if the Rams hope to address the glaring weaknesses that plagued them during the 2020 campaign. The departure of key players like defensive tackle Michael Brockers, safety John Johnson III and center Austin Blythe indicate that there is still some work to be done for this group.
The Rams have six total picks to work with in the 2021 NFL Draft. While rookies are not normally tasked with taking on such integral roles right out of the gate, those lucky enough to find themselves in L.A. may have a chance to compete on a bonafide playoff contender come next season.
1. Inside Linebacker
The Rams boasted the No. 1-ranked defense in the league last year under rookie defensive coordinator Brandon Staley. With defensive tackle Aaron Donald serving as the anchor up front and cornerback Jalen Ramsey locking things down over the top, the linebacker corps emerged as the Achilles heel of this group.
Linebacker Micah Kiser stepped up as the replacement for Cory Littleton on the inside last season and got off to a strong start by being named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts in Week 2 before injuries ultimately limited him to just nine regular-season games.
Linebacker Troy Reeder struggled as the team’s contingency plan behind Kiser while linebacker Kenny Young failed to make much of an overall impact. Do not be surprised if L.A. finally looks to divert some resources to revamp the inside.
2. Edge Rush
L.A. managed to make a splash by re-signing outside linebacker Leonard Floyd to a four-year extension. After all, Floyd is coming off a career year that saw him finish second on the team in sacks (10.5) behind Donald (13.5).
Unfortunately, there is a significant drop-off in edge sacks after Floyd between Justin Hollins (3.0) and Terrell Lewis (2.0). The loss of defensive ends Morgan Fox and Samsom Ebukam in free agency means the Rams are in the market for some much-needed depth once the draft arrives.
3. Offensive Line
With Blythe Gone, Brian Allen remains as the only listed center left on the roster leading up to organized team activities. Unfortunately, Allen’s track record in the middle of this line certainly leaves much to be desired and this will likely spur L.A. to pull the trigger on any intriguing options available at center.
Left tackle Andrew Whitworth is signed with the team through the 2022 season and all signs point to both sides playing out the current deal. However, they may need to consider potentially bringing in his future replacement if they hope to have time to properly develop him for such a major role up front.
There is also some speculation regarding right tackle Rob Havenstein’s future as a potential cap casualty. With Joseph Noteboom also set to become a free agent after this season, the Rams could certainly use some depth along the o-line.
Here are the current picks the Rams will be making from April 29 to May 1:
Round 2: No. 57 overall
Round 3: No. 88 overall
Round 3: No. 103 overall (compensatory)
Round 4: No. 141 overall (compensatory)
Round 6: No. 209 overall
Round 7: No. 252 overall
