31. LOS ANGELES RAMS (15-4)
LAST SEASON: Earned first Super Bowl trip in 17 years to cap coach Sean McVay’s second season in charge. Matched NFL’s best regular-season record despite December dip in form before getting two playoff victories and trip to Atlanta. Season ended with ugly 13-3 loss to New England, but Rams cemented status as dynamic offensive powerhouse with years of potential success ahead.
FREE AGENCY: Lost more than they gained, but retained pass rusher Dante Fowler and filled key needs with veteran contributors. Linebacker Clay Matthews returned to LA after decade in Green Bay to rush passers at his old college stadium, and safety Eric Weddle arrived to replace inconsistent Lamarcus Joyner at key spot in secondary. Blake Bortles signed as backup quarterback to Jared Goff.
THEY NEED: OL, DL, CB, S, OLB.
THEY DON’T NEED: QB, RB, WR.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: OL Greg Little, Mississippi; C Garrett Bradbury, North Carolina State; DT Dexter Lawrence, Clemson.
OUTLOOK: After years of high picks, Rams are stuck at back of most rounds. Still have opportunity to bolster depth or find offensive line starter or two. Also prime candidates to trade out of first round if opportunity arises to grab more picks.
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