April 1, 2008

Needs on offense: The Rams would love to find an heir apparent to aging OLT Orlando Pace, who has seen action in only nine games the past two years. They also have a very uncertain situation at the center position and are in dire need of more depth on a line that struggled mightily to stay healthy last season. They also could use some insurance in the backfield behind workhorse Steven Jackson and clearly need to get bigger, faster and younger at wide receiver. 

Needs on defense: Jim Haslett’s unit could use help everywhere, especially at defensive end, where the need for pass-rushing help is huge. DLE Leonard Little (33 years old) is coming off major toe surgery, and DRE James Hall (31) had only 21⁄2 sacks in 2007. The secondary could also be an area of concern. CB Fakhir Brown’s status is a bit shaky due to off-field issues, and SS Corey Chavous is on his last legs.

On Draft Day … With huge needs at numerous positions, the Rams could go in a lot of different directions with the second overall pick — including trading down a few spots, where top-quality linemen on both sides of the ball are still expected to be available. Don’t be surprised if the team uses one of its first-day picks on a speedy pass catcher.