Although there were issues that plagued the 2015 NFL season for the Los Angeles Rams, their defensive line was one of the few bright spots — establishing themselves as one of the best in the NFL.
Now, the Rams defensive line which consists of Aaron Donald, Robert Quinn, Micheal Brockers, Dominique Easley, Eugene Sims, and William Hayes have been ranked as the league’s best according to Gregg Rosenthal of NFL Network:
“Donald and Quinn might each have the quickest get-off of any player at their position. The presence of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams and terrific depth puts the Rams over the top. Williams often helps get his linemen get advantageous matchups because opposing offenses are so worried about cornerback and safety blitzes. If the Rams’ first season in Los Angeles proves to be a dud, it should not be the fault of the defensive line.”
It is no secret the Rams possess heavy star power in Donald and Quinn, but what is most impressive is the depth that follows. Los Angeles also has two other former first-rounders with Brockers and Easley to go with the veterans Hayes and Sims. Their depth was enough for them to beat out the likes of other defensive lines in the league such as the New York Jets or the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Rams have long flown under the radar as one of the more solid defense in the league. However, with the emergence of Donald and the hopeful resurgence of Quinn, expectations in Los Angeles are now beginning to soar.