2011 NFL Draft Results: How the St. Louis Rams Stack Up in the NFC West

There is no doubt that the St. Louis Rams were proactive in drafting for needs and finding decent values along the way.  They effectively improved the team, particularly some components of the defense.

However, the Rams did leave a few key positions open and will need to try to address those in free agency.  They had significant issues at OLB, and I don't see using a seventh round pick on a 225 pound FCS player as filling the need.  

I liked the pick  of Robert Quinn, and not just because he's the person I had them taking in my mock draft.  He will help with their DL rotation now, and is a great transition plan for James Hall who isn't likely to be playing much longer.

Their biggest need on offense is a TE that can stretch the field and catch the ball.  The Vikings snagged the clear favorite at the position just a couple of picks earlier, but Kendricks is no slouch.  Add in the receivers coming back from injury, and the two WRs selected will likely be competing for roles as the third and fourth receivers.

As they currently stand, the Rams didn't do quite enough to fill their holes on defense.  Teams will likely be able to exploit them, particularly the caliber of teams on their schedule.  While they will be a better team in 2011, they still have a little work to do before they can consistently match up with the better teams around the league.  

This is how I see the NFC Worst falling out in 2011:

Seattle Seahawks:  8-8
49ers-stack-up-in-the-nfc-west-race" target="_blank">San Francisco 49ers: 7-9 
St. Louis Rams: 7-9
Arizona Cardinals: 3-13

For a full breakdown, click here: Breakdown and standings for each team.