News: Four of the Rams' 10 draft picks in April addressed the defensive side of the ball, including their top pick, LSU defensive tackle Michael Brockers. He's joined by North Alabama cornerback Janoris Jenkins, Montana cornerback Trumaine Johnson and Hawaii linebacker Aaron Brown.
Analysis: The Rams' defense has been in flux all offseason after being obliterated week after week in 2011. Cortland Finnegan followed former coach Jeff Fisher to St. Louis to help shore up the Rams' weak secondary, and veterans like Trevor Laws, Kendall Langford and William Hayes will help along the defensive line. The Rams should be better as a whole, but they shouldn't get picked for Fantasy use. Expect them to be available off waivers during the season.
News: In the wake of the NFL suspending defensive coordinator Gregg Williams indefinitely for his role in the Saints' use of bounties , Rams head coach Jeff Fisher announced Wednesday that the team will not name a defensive coordinator for the upcoming season. Fisher said that he will share the duties with assistant head coach Dave McGinnis and defensive backs coach Chuck Cecil. All three are former defensive coordinators. "This organization, including myself, had no idea when we hired coach Williams, the potential for this to happen," Fisher said. "I’ve often been asked behind the scenes, ‘Had you known about it would you have hired him?’ Of course not."
Analysis: Fisher & Co. will be tasked with repairing the team's woeful rushing defense that ranked 31st in the NFL last season (152.1 yards per game). Injuries crippled the unit throughout the season and the team is expected to make several player changes. For now, Fantasy owners should not consider St. Louis a worthwhile DST option in 2012 drafts.
News: New St. Louis coach Jeff Fisher is expected to add former New Orleans defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to the same position with the Rams, according to numerous reports. Williams, who has served as the Saints' defensive coordinator for the past three seasons, said on Thursday that he and Fisher are "best friends." St. Louis surrendered 25.4 points per game this past season -- the fourth highest total in the NFC.
Analysis: Williams' departure has been rumored since Fisher accepted the job with the Rams. He will be tasked with repairing the team's woeful rushing defense that ranked 31st in the NFL last season (152.1 yards per game). Injuries crippled the unit throughout the season and the team is expected to make several player changes. For now, Fantasy owners should not consider St. Louis a worthwhile DST option in 2012 drafts.
News: Head coach Steve Spagnuolo and GM Billy Devaney were fired Monday by the Rams, one day after the team wrapped up a 2-14 season, tied for the NFL's worst. Kevin Demoff, vice president and chief operating officer, said owner Stan Kroenke made the decision Sunday night. The Rams made a six-win improvement last season and played for the NFC West title in the finale, but were just 10-38 overall in three seasons with Spagnuolo and Devaney calling the shots. "Coach addressed the team this morning to let us know that he was terminated and he was sorry, especially for the guys that have been here the entire three years he was coach, that he didn't get the job done," running back Steven Jackson said. "He took full responsibility."
Analysis: Spagnuolo was considered a defensive whiz after an impressive performance by the Giants in a Super Bowl upset of the unbeaten Patriots in 2008, and got a four-year contract for his first head coaching job. He's sure to get hired to coach a defense in 2012. As for the Rams defense, they're a mess after being plagued with injuries last season. Chances are a new coach will add some quality players to the roster, making them a fairly deep unit so long as they can avoid injuries again. We could end up calling the Rams DST a sleeper in 2012, though chances are most owners will not consider them on Draft Day.
News: The Rams defense could not slow down the Steelers much in Week 16. St. Louis gave up 377 yards of total offense, including 169 on the ground in the 27-0 loss. While DB Josh Gordy was able to pick off QB Charlie Batch once, the Rams did not record a sack.
Analysis: The Rams have given up at least 23 points a contest game during their six-game losing streak as their linebackers and secondary continue to struggle. While Chris Long is turning into a feared pass rusher, there is still a lot of help needed in St. Louis. With the 49ers on tap for the season finale, continue to view the Rams DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Rams DST heads into Week 16 at Pittsburgh with a very tough matchup ahead of them. The Steelers have not been giving up a lot of Fantasy points to opposing DST units as they vie for playoff contention. The Steelers don't make a ton of mistakes and the Rams DST has not been an opportune unit this season.
Analysis: The Rams DST was solid over Weeks 8 through 12, but have since fallen off big time. The Rams DST has not scored in double figures in Fantasy points in three straight games and is not a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 16.
News: For the first time in four weeks, the St. Louis defense held an opponent to less than 300 total yards. However, it wasn't enough to upend Cincinnati as the Rams dropped their fifth consecutive game following a 20-13 loss in Week 15. St. Louis yielded 283 total yards, including just 173 passing, to the Bengals, who scored 17 unanswered points between the third and fourth quarters. Cincinnati tallied only one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Rams also created the contest's only turnover when they picked off Bengals QB Andy Dalton. But St. Louis could not capitalize on a season-high three fumbles by RB Cedric Benson as Cincinnati was able to recover all of the miscues. The one sack was also the team's lowest since Week 6 against Green Bay. With Pittsburgh looming in Week 16, Fantasy owners should not consider the Rams a worthwhile Fantasy DST option.
News: St. Louis defensive coordinator Ken Flajole said his unit has worn down late in games, but the Rams have not lost their desire. "We battle and the guys give us great effort,” Flajole said. “They prepare now like they did in Week 1. Those are the things that are encouraging to me and give me hope." St. Louis has recorded multiple sacks in eight consecutive games heading into its Week 15 matchup against Cincinnati (24 total).
Analysis: The Rams represent the first defense the Bengals have faced in the past six weeks not ranked in the top 10. Cincinnati was held to less than 24 points in each game, but could surpass that barrier as St. Louis has allowed an average of 25.1 points a week. In fact, against defenses not ranked in the top 10 this season -- such as the Rams (25th) -- Cincinnati scored at least 22 points in all six games. St. Louis gives up plenty of yardage and has struggled creating turnovers recently (one in its past two games). The Rams are not a worthwhile DST option in Week 15.
News: The Rams DST ran into a buzz saw on Monday night in Seattle as the Seahawks beat up on St. Louis Week 14. The Rams DST gave up 359 yards -- including 115 on the ground to Marshawn Lynch -- in the 30-13 defeat. The Rams DST recovered a fumble and managed two sacks in the performance.
Analysis: The Rams DST had actually been on a roll with five straight double-digit Fantasy scoring games from Week 8 until Week 12. Unfortunately, the team has given up 56 points in the last two games while forcing just two turnovers. Heading into Week 15 against Cincinnati, the Rams DST is not a recommended Fantasy start.
News: The Rams will be going up against a Seahawks running game in Week 14 that has been very productive recently. Their attack has been led by Marshawn Lynch, who has rushed for 591 yards with five touchdowns over his last five games. Seattle ranks 22nd in the league in rushing and 25th in passing while St. Louis ranks eighth against the pass but last in the NFL in run defense, giving up nearly 158 yards per contest. The Rams have recorded 33 sacks thus far with 10 interceptions and two DST scores.
Analysis: The Rams have done surprisingly well against the pass this season but their front-seven has not done much to slow down the running game. When the division foes met eariler in the year, Seattle racked up 289 yards of total offense and scored 24 points. With the way Lynch has been running over teams of late, it could be a long game for St. Louis on Monday night. Consider the Rams DST as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 14.
News: The Rams DST could not hold on and beat the Cardinals on Sunday of Week 12 at home. The Rams DST allowed 374 total yards to the Cardinals as Beanie Wells rushed for 228 yards on the game. The Rams DST gave up a 22-yard field goal to Jay Feely with just over four minutes to play and took the 23-20 defeat. The Rams DST forced three turnovers in the game as QB John Skelton threw two interceptions and Wells lost a fumble. The Rams DST added three sacks of Skelton in the game. The Rams DST's play of the game came early when punt returner Nick Miller returned the Cardinals' first punt of the game 88 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Rams DST has actually recorded double digits in Fantasy scoring in five consecutive games now. The DTD was the unit's first since Week 8, so they have been performing admirably without defensive or special teams scores. The Rams DST has at least three sacks in four of the last five games. Heading into Week 13 at San Francisco, the Rams DST could have another solid game. The 49ers have a great defense, but not a great offense. The Rams DST has been playing well and is a decent start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 13.
News: The Rams DST took a loss Week 11 against Seattle, but the unit wasn't terrible in the 24-7 defeat. Heading into Week 12 at home against Arizona, the Rams DST is looking to extend a streak of four-straight games in double digits in Fantasy scoring. The Rams DST racked up four sacks and four turnovers forced last week against the Seahawks and the unit has recorded double-digit sack totals in five straight games.
Analysis: The Rams DST meets a familiar opponent in Arizona Week 12. The Cardinals beat St. Louis 19-13, but the Rams DST held Arizona to 262 yards and forced two turnovers with three sacks in that game. What's more, Arizona has been getting worse as an offense and are heading into the Week 12 game with turmoil surrounding the quarterback situation. Kevin Kolb might not be healthy enough to play and John Skelton was a turnover machined in his stead Week 11. The Rams DST has been playing well and is a decent start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 12.
News: Despite facing error-prone QB Tarvaris Jackson, St. Louis was unable to effectively contain the Seattle offense during a 24-7 loss in Week 11. The Rams picked off Jackson twice, but surrendered 24 unanswered points on the way to their second loss in the past three games. “I’m really disappointed. It was a tough one," St. Louis coach Steve Spagnuolo said. "We had some opportunities early with some turnovers. We had a lot of challenges to overcome, obviously with the injuries. This keeps going, not sure why, unexplainable. But we’ve got to fight through it.”
Analysis: The Rams also forced three fumbles but were unable to recover any of them as the Seahawks rolled up 289 total yards. They did manage four sacks on Jackson and have now recorded multiple sacks in four consecutive games (15 in that stretch). St. Louis' defense was also on the field for 10 more minutes than the offense as the Rams struggled with turnovers themselves. Fantasy owners should view St. Louis as a No. 2 Fantasy DST against Arizona in Week 12. The Cardinals won the previous meeting, 19-13 in overtime.
News: After being ripped for at least 320 total yards each week during a seven-game losing to begin the season, the St. Louis defense has shown improvement recently. The Rams run defense has experienced a dramatic turnaround and is drawing notice from opponents. St. Louis has held two of its last three foes to less than 100 rushing yards. “They had that game against Dallas that (skewed the stats)," said Seattle coach Pete Carroll, whose team faces St. Louis in Week 11. "It’s a physical, tough group that attacks the heck out of you.”
Analysis: The Rams are also aware of one of their upcoming opponent's strong points -- special teams -- and are not taking the Seahawks lightly. “Leon (Washington) does a nice job, it’s his ability to create his own return," St. Louis special teams coordinator Tom McMahon said. "When there’s nothing there, he creates something. It’s that running back vision. He’s built so low to the ground, but has the speed to run through you and break tackles." Despite the improvement, the Rams continue to create few turnovers and had just one takeaway last week. Consider St. Louis a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 11.
News: While the Rams' defense held the Browns to only 12 points in a Week 10 victory, it was not a particularly eventful afternoon for the Rams DST. They allowed the Browns, who rank 29th in the league in points per game and 30th in offensive yardage per game, to rack up 335 yards of total offense. The Rams forced a single turnover -- a Josh Cribbs fumble on a punt return -- and they did sack QB Colt McCoy twice.
Analysis: The Rams were unable to take advantage of what appeared to be an excellent matchup. The Seahawks, their opponent in Week 11, are also not much of an offensive threat, but as we saw in Week 10, the Rams DST is simply not trustworthy to start in standard leagues. With another good matchup in hand, they can be considered as a No. 2 DST option for the coming week.
News: After a poor start to the season, the Rams DST has performed well in each of the last two weeks, holding the Saints and Cardinals to under 20 points and 300 yards apiece. They will face the Browns in Week 10, who rank in the bottom four in the league in both scoring and offensive yardage per game. The Browns have also allowed 21 sacks, which is tied for the 10th-highest total in the league.
Analysis: While the Rams still rank near the bottom of all DSTs in Fantasy scoring, their recent run and upcoming matchup give owners a reason to consider making a waiver move. The Rams DST is available in 80 percent of the leagues on CBSSports.com, and they could be a viable option as a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 DST for Week 10.
News: St. Louis faced an Arizona team that started backup QB John Skelton. The Rams sacked Skelton three times on the day, but the more impressive stat is holding Beanie Wells to just 20 yards on the ground. Skelton rushed for more yards than Wells in Week 9. St. Louis would get two safeties on the day -- on back-to-back possessions -- one via sack and the other by an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone. Despite all the good the Rams did, they would not be able to win the game. St. Louis lost 19-13 in overtime to Arizona.
Analysis: Even though they lost the game, the Rams DST didn't do too poorly for Fantasy owners. Looking ahead to Week 10, St. Louis travels to Cleveland a team that has been struggling to move the ball on offense. With another favorable matchup next weekend, Fantasy owners should consider the Rams DST a low-end No. 1 option.
News: Heading into Week 9, the Rams face the Cardinals on the road. The Rams are coming off a game where they held the Saints to just 21 points and less than 300 total yards of offense. Arizona is no New Orleans, and they may be without starting QB Kevin Kolb who was listed as doubtful for the game on Friday. If Kolb's injury holds him out of the game, the Cardinals will turn to John Skelton to lead the team.
Analysis: The Rams tallied six sacks last weekend against the Saints and could have a feeding frenzy versus the young signal caller for the Cardinals. The Rams are coming off a huge game and have some momentum on their side. Opposing DSTs are averaging 11.43 Fantasy points per game against the Cardinals this season. Fantasy owners should only view the Rams DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 DST option if they get a Cardinals team with Skelton under center.
News: St. Louis faces Arizona in Week 9 for the first time this season. The Rams are coming off a game where they held the Saints to just 21 points and less than 300 total yards of offense. Arizona QB Kevin Kolb said he’s expecting “a lot of exotic blitzes” from the Rams on Sunday. “They bring it from every different direction,” Kolb said. The Rams tallied six sacks last weekend against the Saints.
Analysis: The Rams are coming off a huge game and have some momentum on their side. Opposing DSTs are averaging 11.43 Fantasy points per game against the Cardinals this season. Despite the team playing well and having a favorable matchup in Week 9, Fantasy owners should only view the Rams DST as a No. 2 option.
News: Entering Week 8, the Rams defense appeared to be the next sacrificial lamb for a Saints offense that had just scored 62 points against the Colts in Week 7. After all, the Rams ranked 29th in total defense and had just given up 253 rushing yards to Cowboys rookie RB DeMarco Murray. But apparently, the Rams defense saved its best for the highest-scoring offense in the NFL, limiting the Saints to 21 points on only 283 yards. They also recorded a season-high six sacks, including three by DL Chris Long, and intercepted two passes, including one that DB Darian Stewart returned 27 yards for a touchdown to secure the victory.
Analysis: Unbelievable. The Rams defense vs. the Saints offense was a total David-and-Goliath matchup, and believe it or not, David won. This performance is at least reason for you to keep an eye on the Rams DST over the next couple weeks, but one good game isn't enough to redeem the unit in Fantasy. It had been nothing short of pathetic prior to Week 8. It does have a good matchup at Arizona in Week 9, though.
News: In Week 8, the Rams host a Saints team that's averaging an NFL-high 34.1 points per game and just put up 62 against the Colts in Week 7. "That's pretty impressive," Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said. "We know what they're all about in terms of firepower, so it's a pretty good challenge." Challenge might be an understatement. The Rams rank 29th in total defense -- 32nd against the run and 13th against the pass -- and are coming off a game in which they allowed 253 rushing yards to Cowboys rookie RB DeMarco Murray. Spagnuolo says they're working to tighten up the sloppy tackling that contributed to that performance. "We had an issue this past week, so we fix it,” Spagnuolo said. "During the team period there was an emphasis on how to stop the ball and it was a little more physical than normal."
Analysis: The Rams can tighten up whatever they want heading into Week 8, but the bottom line it's going to be a massacre. Even if the defense is somehow able to step up against the run, the Saints are more dangerous through the air anyway. The Saints have allowed 5.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs -- sixth-lowest in the NFL -- and they were facing defenses far better than the Rams' in many of those games. The Rams DST isn't the type of unit you'd ever want to start in Fantasy, but you'd clearly be sabotaging yourself by starting it this week.
News: St. Louis held Dallas QB Tony Romo under 200 yards passing, but gave up two touchdowns through the air. The bigger problem was stopping the run -- something the Rams haven't been able to do at all this year -- as they allowed rookie RB DeMarco Murray to log 253 yards on the ground and one score. The Rams recorded two sacks on the day, but would lose the game 34-7 to the Cowboys.
Analysis: The Rams were just dreadful in Week 7 against the Cowboys. Looking ahead it doesn't get any easier as they host the Saints next Sunday. Fantasy owners should not be starting the Rams DST at this point in the season as they are getting abused on Sundays.
News: St. Louis travels to Dallas in Week 7, a team that averages over 400 yards of offense per game this season. The Rams are allowing teams to score an average of 27 points and pile up 403 total yards of offense against them. St. Louis has just nine sacks on the year, most of them accounted for by Chris Long. The Cowboys also may be without RB Felix Jones, who is dealing with some injuries.
Analysis: Opposing DST's average 12.20 Fantasy points per contest against Dallas. The Rams will have to get pressure on Tony Romo to force him into mistakes to have a chance in this game. Long will have to overcome some double teams to make an impact. Fantasy owners should view the Rams DST as a low-end No. 2 option at best for Week 7.
News: The Rams DST had a quiet game Sunday at Green Bay in a 24-3 loss. The Rams had one interception by Craig Dahl, but the Rams had just one sack and no fumble recoveries. On special teams, the Rams had two punt returns from Austin Pettis for 56 yards and two kickoff returns from Quinn Porter for 40 yards.
Analysis: The Rams DST has minimal Fantasy value and is not worth using in most leagues. Ignore them in Week 7 at Dallas.
News: The Rams will be going up against a potent offense in Week 6 against the Packers. Green Bay ranks fourth in the league in passing and 22nd in rushing. St. Louis ranks 13th and 32nd against the pass and run, respectively. The Rams have recorded eight sacks thus far with three interceptions.
Analysis: The Rams are giving up over 28 points per contest through the first four games while the Packers are averaging over 34 points per game. Even if they can somehow slow down Green Bay's potent passing attack, their rush defense, which ranks last in the NFL, will also be susceptible. Fantasy owners would be wise to stay away from the Rams DST in Week 6.
News: The Rams DST did not fare well on Sunday of Week 4 in a 17-10 loss to the Redskins in St. Louis. The Rams DST allowed Washington to go for 339 total yards in the defeat. The Rams did force Rex Grossman into two costly fourth-quarter interceptions, but it was too little, too late for the Rams. St. Louis did not sack Grossman once in the game.
Analysis: The Rams failed to record a sack for the first time this season and has just eight sacks in four contests to go with six turnovers forced. The Rams DST has not been a good unit this season and should be avoided in Week 5 as the team is on bye. The Rams DST should continue to be avoided in Week 6 at Green Bay.
News: The Rams DST has been underwhelming this season entering Week 4 at home against Washington. The Rams DST has recorded eight sacks in three games, but has forced just four turnovers and is allowing an average of over 426 yards and 26 points allowed per game against the Eagles, Giants and Ravens.
Analysis: The Rams DST has struggled all season and the Redskins haven't exactly given up loads of points to opposing DST units on the year. Washington has only surrendered eight sacks and has only turned the ball over five times. We don't expect a lot out of the Rams DST for Week 4. Consider them a low-end No. 2 Fantasy unit, at best.
News: The Rams DST surrendered 37 points on 553 yards of total offense in Week 3 to the Ravens. The unit was gashed for 385 total yard in the air and three passing touchdowns, which all occurred in the first quarter. St. Louis also gave up 168 yards on the ground and allowed Baltimore to score points in the every quarter. The unit was able to force one turnover and sack Joe Flacco three times in the contest.
Analysis: The Rams straighten seemed to be their secondary through the first few weeks of the season, but that got exposed in a big way on Sunday afternoon. Many were expecting this unit to be one of the sleepers of the league this year, but so far that has not been the case. The Rams DST is really struggling to stop anybody right now and the unit's inability to create big plays or force turnovers is limiting their value. Fantasy owners should consider the unit a low-end Fantasy DST heading into Week 4 against the Redskins.
News: The Rams DST will be looking to slow down the Ravens' ground attack in Week 3. St. Louis has been gashed on the ground thus far, allowing a league-worst 177.5 rushing yards per game. The Ravens enter Sunday's contest averaging 107.5 yards rushing per contest and 307 yards of total offense. The Rams DST is currently ranked 28th, in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up six sacks and forced four turnovers
Analysis: The Rams have been pretty good at defending the pass this season, but have been gashed on the ground thus far. That doesn't bode well for Fantasy owners heading into Week 3, especially when the unit will be facing Ray Rice. Baltimore will likely look to get Rice going early and often on Sunday, which could make it a long day for St. Louis. The Rams are still likely a few years away from being a solid defensive unit so consider their DST as a No. 2 option heading into Week 3.
News: The Rams defense did a solid job limiting the Giants offense in Week 2, but they had a hard time keeping them off the board. St. Louis allowed just 300 yards of total offense and picked off QB Eli Manning once in the 28-16 loss. New York gained 181 yards through the air and 199 yards on the ground. The Rams also sacked Manning three times in the defeat.
Analysis: The Rams were able to control the Giants passing game on Monday night but the Giants worked with a short field often times and were able to capitalize with some points. St. Louis' defense will be able to keep them in games against some of the better offenses in the league, now their offense just has to hold up their end of the bargain. But since they are still a young defensive corps, continue to view the Rams DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 3 against the Ravens.
News: The Rams will be facing off against the Giants and their stout run offense in Week 2. New York threw for 240 yards in their season opener and while they gained just 75 yards on the ground, RBs Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs have proven to be than formidable runners. St. Louis held Philadelphia to just 167 yards passing in Week 1 but gave up a league-worst 236 yards rushing.
Analysis: The Rams did a good job slowing down the run in their opener but they did not have an answer in the passing game. The Giants are a better running team than the Eagles and should be able to power their way down the field against a young defense in St. Louis. The Rams are still likely a few years away from being a solid defensive unit so consider their DST as a No. 2 option for Week 2.
News: Rams DB Ron Bartell, who suffered a fractured bone in his lower neck, confirmed to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he is out for the season. "My goal is to play again," Bartell said. "I'm fully prepared to play again. I'm approaching it as such that I will play again. There's absolutely no way I could come back and play this year. It takes time just for the bone to heal." Justin King is now expected to move into the starting lineup to replace Bartell.
Analysis: It was a disappointing Week 1 for the Rams. Not only did they lose Bartell, but RB Steven Jackson, QB Sam Bradford and WR Danny Amendola in a loss to the Eagles. Luckily, most of the defense is still in tact, but losing a veteran like Bartell could hurt in the long run. Bartell didn't have much value in Fantasy IDP leagues. The Rams DST remains a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 2 against the Giants.
News: The Rams got off to a promising start against the Eagles in Week 1, but eventually proved to be overmatched in a 31-13 loss. They gave up 237 yards rushing in the game (including 98 to QB Michael Vick) and allowed 404 total yards. They forced one turnover in the game and managed three sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Rams looked to have last year's Fantasy darling, Vick, flustered in the early going with heavy pressure. They did several things well, including holding Vick to less than 50 percent pass completion in the game and under 200 yards. However, they were done in by a series of big plays, including a 49-yard touchdown run. Seven points came off a touchdown that was scored by the Eagles defense on a fumble recovery and, overall, the Rams should signs of developing into a viable Fantasy unit. For now, they remain merely a No. 2 unit who may not become useful until the bye weeks. They'll face the Giants on the road in Week 2.
News: The Rams will have a tough task in Week 1 when they host the Eagles to open up the regular season. Last season, the Eagles ranked second in the NFL in total yards per game (389.4) and third in points per game (27.4).
Analysis: The Rams finished 19th in total defense last season, but do have some solid building blocks and a defensive-oriented head coach. While there is reason to believe in significant improvement this season, they are not a unit we recommend relying upon in the early going this season and certainly not with the matchup they are faced with.
News: The Rams added pass rush help in the 2011 NFL Draft, taking North Carolina defensive end Robert Quinn with the 14th pick. Quinn is 6-foot-5 and 270 pounds, an excellent edge rush prospect, and won't be 21 until next month. He had a huge sophomore season with 11 sacks, but no doubt was bumped down several picks because he was suspended his senior season for receiving improper gifts. Quinn also might have been considered a bit of a medical risk, considering he's played with a brain tumor since his senior year in high school. Quinn said he gets checked every six months and the Rams were fine with it. Quinn played exclusively right end in college and Long blossomed when the Rams stopped moving him around and made him a full-timer on the left side. Quinn didn't think he'd be too rusty after missing a year. "I don't think I'm too far off," Quinn said. "Football's football, the game hasn't changed. Like everybody else, I've just got to work on the basic fundamentals and get better."
Analysis: Quinn will help St. Louis' pass rush a lot. But it's their secondary that has us nervous -- the loss of O.J. Atogwe combined with a lack of talented cornerbacks might make the Rams real easy to pass against in 2011. We'd pass on this DST in standard formats.
News: With a playoff spot on the line, the St. Louis defense was eager to face Seattle and backup quarterback Charlie Whitehurst in Week 17. That anticipation quickly turned into exasperation as Whitehurst totaled 222 total yards from scrimmage to lead the Seahawks to a 16-6 victory Sunday and the NFC West division title. The Rams allowed Whitehurst, who was making only his second career start in place of injured QB Matt Hasselbeck, to complete 61.1 percent of his passes and throw for the game's only touchdown in the first quarter. Whitehurst's 192 passing yards were the most St. Louis has allowed an opposing quarterback in its last three games as the Rams lost for the 11th time in the last 12 games against Seattle. "The fact our defense played, in my opinion, pretty great, the fact that we let the team down, that we couldn't get anything going, that's what really hurts," Rams QB Sam Bradford said after the offense managed just 184 total yards Sunday.
Analysis: St. Louis displayed little resemblance to the defense it showed in the teams' previous meeting this season. In that Week 4 game, the Rams held the Seahawks to just 64 rushing yards and recorded four sacks en route to a 20-3 victory. On Sunday, St. Louis was unable to effectively limit the Seattle running game and allowed three ball-carriers to reach at least 28 yards as they totaled 141 rushing yards. The Seahawks racked up 333 yards to become the fourth straight opponent to record more than 300 yards against a St. Louis defense that had allowed the fewest points in the division (312) entering Week 17. Despite playing against a backup quarterback, the Rams also failed to register a sack in a game for just the second time this season. Sunday's loss marked the fifth defeat St. Louis suffered this season by 10 points or less. However, with a solid young linebacker corps, the Rams could make for a low-end DST option in deeper leagues for Fantasy drafts in 2011.
News: The Rams defense might catch a break in Week 17 against the Seahawks. With QB Matt Hasselbeck suffering a hip injury in Week 16, St. Louis is likely to face Seahawks backup QB Charlie Whitehurst on Sunday with a spot in the playoffs on the line. “He’s been in the league long enough; he certainly knows what he’s doing," Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said. "He can get them in and out of trouble with protections, etc. I’m sure, with a week of practice, they don’t feel like they lose very much.”
Analysis: Although, with the way the Rams manhandled Hasselbeck and the Seahawks in Week 4 you probably would think St. Louis would want to face Hasselbeck. Seattle managed just 257 yards in a 20-3 loss to the Rams earlier this season, while Hasselbeck completed 20 of 36 passes for 191 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. The matchup is lining up to be a favorable one for St. Louis, so you might consider starting the Rams DST in Week 17.
News: It didn't matter which Smith was under center for San Francisco in Week 16, the St. Louis defense stopped them both. The Rams harassed both 49ers quarterbacks -- Troy Smith and Alex Smith -- and recorded two times apiece on the struggling signal-callers in a 25-17 victory on Sunday. "I wouldn't say there was a lot of differences, but you've got to give St. Louis credit," Troy Smith said. "Defensively, they do a lot of things to put the quarterback and team in a not-so-comfortable situation." Troy Smith also fumbled a poor shotgun snap in the first quarter that led to a safety to give the Rams a 9-0 lead after the first quarter. St. Louis did, however, allow Ted Ginn Jr. to score a touchdown on a 78-yard punt return in the second quarter but surrendered just 10 points for the remainder of the game.
Analysis: With the Rams needing a win to stay in the hunt for the NFC West title, the team's defense turned in one its best efforts of the season. St. Louis held San Francisco to just 85 rushing yards in Sunday's game -- the sixth opponent it has held to fewer than 100 yards this season but just the first since Week 10. With its exceptional pass rush throughout the game, the Rams forced an interception for the fourth consecutive game and have now recorded six picks in their last four weeks. St. Louis has now held opponents to less than 20 points in six of its seven wins this season, including two teams to fewer than 10. Consider the Rams DST a viable Fantasy option with a playoff spot on the line in Week 17 at Seattle and error-prone Matt Hasselbeck.
News: The Rams host the 49ers in a key NFC West matchup in Week 16, and the St. Louis DST will be looking to improve after giving up an average of 29 points over the last couple of games. In the last meeting between these two teams, the Rams gave up 23 points in a loss.
Analysis: The Rams DST ranks 22nd in standard Fantasy leagues this season, and while this unit will need to show up in a big way in Week 16 if St. Louis is to win this crucial contest, it will be hard to trust it in a Fantasy title game. Look elsewhere if you can.
News: The Rams' DST got off to a good start in Week 15, as they held the Chiefs scoreless and intercepted Matt Cassel during the first quarter. Danny Amendola even broke open a 42-yard punt return that matched his longest return of the year. Then it all went downhill in the 27-13 loss, as Kansas City amassed 383 total net yards, including 210 rushing yards. Aside from the one interception, the Rams did not force any turnovers, though they did sack Cassel three times.
Analysis: The Rams DST has not been a reliable Fantasy option, and in Week 15, they showed why. Even though they will face a mediocre 49ers offense in Week 16, owners should not start the Rams DST except in deeper formats.
News: The Rams DST enters its Week 15 matchup against Kansas City ranked as the 10th-worst unit in the league, but a couple of signs point towards improvement. They appear to be getting DB Ronald Bartell back from a shoulder injury. Also, it's not yet clear if they will have to face Chiefs QB Matt Cassel, who is recovering from an appendectomy, as his status for Sunday is day to day. At full strength, the Chiefs are an above-average offensive team, as they rank 12th in points scored and 13th in yardage gained.
Analysis: The return of Bartell will help the Rams, but given the inconsistency of the DST this year and the probability that Cassel could still play, it's best to avoid them if at all possible. Except under extremely favorable circumstances, the Rams DST is a low-end option.
News: The Rams defense surrendered 31 points on 345 yards of total offense in Week 14 against the Saints. New Orleans got off to a fast start scoring on their first two offensive possessions. The Rams defense was able to settle down a bit after that as they only allowed one more offensive touchdown the rest of the game. The unit was able to force three turnovers and recorded one sack in the defeat.
Analysis: The Rams DST was unable to slow the Saints down in Week 14, but then again few teams can. Still, the unit has been very inconsistent this season and is a bit banged up in the secondary. While the Rams defense has yet to produce a touchdown this season they have been a decent source for sacks and have been playing better of late. However, they remains an extremely Fantasy play for this time of year and should be considered a low-end Fantasy DST heading into Week 15 against the Chiefs.
News: Rams cornerback Ron Bartell and safety O.J. Atogwe did not practice Wednesday while nursing shoulder injuries. A third member of the secondary, Justin King, was limited with a shoulder injury. Bartell sustained a stinger in the first half Sunday at Arizona and was uncertain Wednesday whether he'd be able to play this weekend at New Orleans. Bartell, the Rams' top coverage cornerback, said his injury would probably be a factor the rest of the season. Atogwe said his shoulder was a little sore but he would be ready for the Saints. Coach Steve Spagnuolo said King aggravated an earlier injury.
Analysis: This is a bad time for the Rams secondary to be hurting as the Saints are strong at home, particularly through the air. The Saints enter Sunday's matchup ranked third in total offense and are averaging 24.9 points per game. The Saints have a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and can put points in a hurry. Even with improved play from their front seven, we do not recommend using the Rams DST at New Orleans.
News: The Rams defense, which played very well last week against the Cardinals, will likely be tested in Week 14 at New Orleans. The Saints enter Sunday's matchup ranked third in total offense and are averaging 24.9 points per game. The Rams DST is ranked 18th in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up 35 sacks and forced 19 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Rams DST has been a bit up-and-down this season, despite delivering a solid performance last week against the Cardinals. While the unit has yet to produce a touchdown this season they have been a decent source for sacks. However, they will have to face one of the league's more explosive offenses in Week 14. The Saints have a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and can put points in a hurry. We do not recommend using them at New Orleans.
News: The Rams defense was able to limit the Cardinals to six points on 224 yards of total offense in Week 13. St.Louis was able to keep Arizona's offense out of the end zone, limiting them to a pair of Jay Feely field goals. The unit did not allow a single point after the first quarter and held the Cardinals to just 119 yards passing. The Rams defense also racked up four sacks and forced two turnovers in the 19-6 victory.
Analysis: The Rams DST has been a bit up-and-down this season, but played very well on Sunday. While the unit has yet to score a touchdown this season, they have been a great source for sacks. However, St. Louis will be tested in Week 14 when they head down to New Orleans to take on the Saints next Sunday. The Saints are extremely potent on offense and can put up points in a hurry. Consider the Rams a low-end Fantasy DST heading into Week 14.
News: The Rams defense will get another crack at the Cardinals in Week 13. St.Louis allowed 17 points on 378 yards of total offense in the 17-13 loss back in Week 1 , but was able to force four fumbles and rack up two sacks. Arizona enters Sunday's matchup ranked 31st in total offense and is averaging just 17.6 points per game. The Rams DST is ranked 23rd, in terms of Fantasy points and has racked up 31 sacks and forced 17 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Rams DST has been a bit up-and-down this season, but will face an Arizona team on Sunday that has been really struggling offensively of late. St.Louis has been a great source for sacks this season and should be able to get to Derek Anderson this week as the Cardinals have surrendered 36 on the season. Consider the Rams a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into Week 13.
News: St. Louis entered Week 12 with a purpose -- put pressure on Denver QB Kyle Orton. DL Chris Long had a sack and hit Orton on an errant fourth-down pass that clinched the win. "It was Orton and me," Long said. "He's a tough guy, but in the end, we had to make up for the two-minute drive we allowed." Denver rallied from a 33-13 deficit by outscoring St. Louis by 17 in the fourth, but couldn't get a field goal attempt out of a last-ditch drive. "When we start to sputter offensively, it's because we have some negative plays or find ourselves in third-and-12, third-and-15 and third-and-10,” coach Josh McDaniels said. Denver was 1 of 9 on third down. The Rams would sack Orton three times on the day and recover two fumbles. After a St. Louis field goal, WR Eddie Royal would fumble the ball and the Rams would recover. The Broncos would call their last time out in hopes to have the play reviewed. It was and the Rams would get on more shot to score before the end of the half. The Rams would recover a Knowshon Moreno fumble in the third quarter too.
Analysis: The Rams DST came up big in Week 12 and could have another solid performance next week. They face the Cardinals in Week 13, a team that has struggled offensively this season. For now, Fantasy owners should view the Rams DST as a No. 2 option next week. They have 31 sacks on the year, so if they can get to the quarterback, they could get another win.
News: St. Louis defensive ends James Hall (team-high 7 1/2 sacks) and Chris Long (5 1/2) will try to keep the pressure on Denver QB Kyle Orton in Week 12. With rookie offensive lineman J.D. Walton and Zane Beadles starting for the Broncos, Orton may need to scramble a bit more than he's used to. Orton was sacked five times in Week 11 and the Rams are ranked among the top of the NFL in that category. They didn't record a sack in Week 11, so that is something they'll need to do against Denver.
Analysis: The Rams defense take on one of the better passing attacks in the league, but also one of the worst rushing teams. While the Rams have been a good source of sacks this year, there are better matchups in Week 12. Consider the Rams DST as a No. 2 option for Week 12.
News: The Rams defense played tough in the first half of Week 11 against the Falcons, but gave up some big plays after halftime. St. Louis held Atlanta to 199 yards of total offense and 16 points in the first part of Sunday's game. But as the game wore one, their defense faltered. The Rams allowed RB Michael Turner to rush for 131 yards, including a 39-yard touchdown run with 1:52 left in the contest, and QB Matt Ryan to throw for 253 yards with two scores in the 34-17 loss. The Rams entered the game with a league-high 28 sacks, but did not record any against Atlanta. “They do a good job of getting rid of the ball and keeping you off balance,” DE Chris Long said. “There’s a reason (Ryan) hasn’t been sacked a lot.”
Analysis: The Rams had been playing better of late but the Falcons proved to be too much for the young defense in Week 11. The St. Louis defense forced three short field goals, but couldn't get off the field quickly enough against an Atlanta offense that had a pair of drives that lasted 6:39 and 7:06 and held the ball for nearly 36 minutes. Atlanta ran 70 plays, most of it in the no-huddle. The Rams will have to get more pressure on the quarterback to be effective so consider their DST a No. 2 option against the Broncos in Week 12.
News: The Rams are 12th overall on defense, a dramatic improvement from 29th last season and a good beginning to fit coach Steve Spagnuolo's vision entering the Week 11 game against the Falcons. They've been stingiest at home, allowing a league-leading 12.6 points and filling their end of the bargain in a home winning streak that has begun to lure back a fan base disenchanted by a three-season black hole of despair. The defensive line has a lot to do with this year's success, the team is tied for the NFL lead with 28 sacks. "It's more fun when the whole line's getting after it," DL James Hall said. "Multiple guys getting sacks, everything clicking across the board, and we're getting there." The Falcons come in to the game with the league's No. 8 total offense.
Analysis: The Rams have surely benefited from weak NFC West opponents, but the Falcons bring a complete offense to the table, so Week 11 will be a different test for the young Rams defense. They allowed Troy Smith to throw for more than 300 yards to the likes of Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis, but the Falcons dominate the 'Niners weapons. Matt Ryan had a career game against the Ravens in Week 10, throwing to Roddy White and future Hall-of-Famer Tony Gonzalez. Although the Rams have played good defense this season, we see the Falcons moving the ball well against them. Consider the Rams DST to be a low-end Fantasy option in Week 11.
News: The Rams defense was able to sack 49ers QB Troy Smith five times in Week 10 but they were unable to slow down their offense. San Francisco totaled 421 yards of offense and scored two touchdowns on Sunday. St. Louis allowed Smith, who was starting his second game of the year, to throw for 356 yards and a touchdown in the 23-20 overtime loss. RB Fran Gore also carved the Rams up for 87 yards and a touchdown on the ground. One of the lone bright stops on Sunday was when LB Bryan Kehl deflected P Andy Lee ’s punt so it netted only 18 yards.
Analysis: The Rams DST had a solid outing against the Panthers last week but were unable to have the same success against a division foe in Week 10. While their defensive line was able to put pressure on the quarterback throughout the game, penalties and big plays cost them the win. Coach Steve Spagnulo will need to rally the troops quickly as St. Louis hosts the Falcons and their high-powered offense in Week 11. Considering the matchup, Fantasy owners should view the Rams DST as a low-end option for next Sunday's game.
News: The Rams defense enters Week 10 against the 49ers having not allowed more than 18 points in three straight games. St. Louis goes into Sunday with the seventh best rush defense in the league, having limited opponents to just 97.8 yards per contest on the ground. While the Rams are 15th in the NFL against the pass, San Francisco will have backup QB Troy Smith going for them, which doesn't help their 18th ranked passing attack.
Analysis: The Rams DST held the Panthers to just 201 total yards of offense a week ago and have been playing better of late. They have some young playmakers and are coached extremely well by Steve Spagnulo. While the 49ers have been able to put up some points recently, the game in Week 10 will be decided on whether or not St. Louis can stop RB Frank Gore. Based on their track record, Fantasy owners should feel comfortable trusting the Rams DST as a low-end No. 1 option heading into Sunday's matchup.
News: The St. Louis Rams held off the Carolina Panthers Week 8, 20-10. The Rams DST performed admirably, limiting the Panthers to just 201 total yards of offense in the game with just 10 points scored. The Rams DST forced the Panthers into committing four turnovers in the game as Matt Moore threw three interceptions. James Laurinaitis picked up one of those interceptions and also had a sack of Moore, who was sacked a total of three times by the Rams DST.
Analysis: The Rams DST have now been underwhelming in two straight games despite being lauded as a start-worthy unit against the Buccaneers and Panthers. The four turnovers weren't bad and neither were the three sacks but it just wasn't a dominating effort for Fantasy owners who started them. They've been solid all year and have been spectacular at times as well. They should remain a borderline No. 1 Fantasy unit but should be avoided in Week 9 as they have a bye. The Rams DST returns Week 10 at San Francisco.
News: The Rams DST underwhelmed Week 7 at Tampa Bay as they could not force a turnover and ended up losing to a team not expected to do much on offense. That said, the Rams DST has been solid for much of this season and returns home in Week 8 to face another mediocre offense in Carolina. With 10 sacks in the last two games, Carolina's Matt Moore better watch out next Sunday.
Analysis: The Rams DST was an attractive pick in Week 7 and underperformed. That may still be stinging you but if you still have them rostered, Week 8 is even more in the Rams DST's favor. The Panthers are allowing opposing DSTs to have a field day against them this season, averaging the second-most Fantasy points per game allowed behind only the Cardinals. St. Louis should be all over the Panthers offense and the Rams DST can be considered a nice selection as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Rams DST was a hot pick up in Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They did not perform up to par. The Rams DST allowed 313 yards of offense to Tampa Bay and could not stop them when it mattered in the second half to lose 18-17. The Rams DST failed to force a turnover. The saving grace was sacking QB Josh Freeman three times in the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST came up with seven sacks Week 6 against the Chargers but the Buccaneers' QB Freeman was able to elude them for just three sacks. They are definitely solid at getting to the quarterback, but there were no turnovers forced against a team that usually gives up quite a few. The Rams DST should have been licking its lips for this matchup and instead was a dud. They meet Carolina in Week 8, however, for another shot at a great game. We still like the Rams DST as a borderline usable unit for the Week 8 game against the Panthers.
News: The St. Louis Rams are winning football games these days and the Rams DST has, incredibly, been a No. 1 Fantasy unit this season after six weeks. Will it continue heading into Week 7 at Tampa Bay? The Rams DST held down the Chargers in Week 6 as they recorded a season-high seven sacks of QB Philip Rivers. The Rams have at least one sack per game and their 17 on the season ties them for sixth in the NFL. Plus, only two teams ranked among the top DSTs have failed to score a defensive touchdown and the Rams are one.
Analysis: The Rams have won three of the last four games they have played and the DST has done a nice job through all of them. They have truly been a No. 1 unit this season and should continue to be so in Week 7 at Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers have been a joke offensively and have been allowing plenty of sacks. The Rams DST should be licking its lips for this matchup. Fantasy owners might have another top DST to use but if the Rams are what you are working with, feel completely comfortable starting them against the Bucs.
News: The Rams' defense came through against a tough opponent in Week 6, and they deserve much of the credit for a 20-17 win over the Chargers. They recorded seven sacks against San Diego QB Philip Rivers and limited him to one passing touchdown. The Chargers, who entered the game as the league's best passing offense, were held to 208 net passing yards and 287 net yards overall. Also, Rams DB Oshiomogho Atogwe picked off a Rivers pass in the end zone for a touchback, starting a drive that ended with a touchdown pass to WR Danario Alexander.
Analysis: After getting pasted by the Lions in Week 5, the defensive turnaround in Week 6 against a strong offense was unexpected. The Rams can't be trusted as a No. 1 DST yet, but perhaps this is the start of better things. Don't roster them just yet, but keep an eye on their DST as a potential sleeper later in the year.
News: The Rams' defense had an awful afternoon in Week 5, yielding 44 points to the Lions. Things could get even worse in Week 6, as they will play host to the league's top-scoring team, the Chargers. San Diego also leads the NFL in offensive yardage, and with 2,309 total offensive yards, they are the only team to currently surpass the 2,000-yard threshold. Meanwhile, the Rams have given up the 11th-highest total of yards in the league.
Analysis: About the only thing that the Rams' defense has going in its favor is the second-highest total of fumble recoveries in the league with six. The overall picture is glum, though, as their DST is tied for the 11th-fewest Fantasy points, and now they face as difficult a matchup as there is with the Chargers. Avoid the Rams DST at all costs in Week 6.
News: Very little went well for the Rams DST in Week 5. The special teams started the game by botching an onside kick, giving the Lions good field position that led to a field goal. The defense gave up 44 points and 322 yards in total to a well-oiled Lions offense. They came away with no interceptions and no fumbles, though they sacked Lions QB Shaun Hill once.
Analysis: Things will likely go from bad to worse for the Rams' defense. In Week 6, they will meet up with the Chargers, who amassed more yards than any other team going into Week 5. The Rams DST should be avoided in all formats for the coming week.
News: After limiting the Seahawks to 257 yards and a field goal in Week 4, the Rams DST gets a tougher test in Week 5 at Detroit. The Lions rank 12th in the league in points scored and 14th in offensive yardage, largely due to a passing game that has produced more yards than all but five teams. While the Lions' passing attack could be a challenge for the Rams -- St. Louis ranks 11th in most passing yards allowed -- they have allowed the fourth-fewest points in the NFL. They are also tied with the Steelers for the most forced fumbles with nine this season to date.
Analysis: The Rams should have no problem neutralizing the Lions' running game, so containing the passing game will be the key to their DST's Fantasy success in Week 5. Given their track record so far this season, it shouldn't be too much of a risk to use them this week, especially if you need a bye-week replacement.
News: The Rams DST lived up to their expectations as a potential Fantasy sleeper in Week 4 as they held the Seahawks to just three points and 257 yards in a 20-3 victory. The Rams recovered a fumble, forced an interception and recorded three sacks.
Analysis: The Rams have now put together two straight solid performances and have a good matchup in Week 5 against the Lions, although Detroit did put up some points in Week 4 against the Packers. If you need a bye-week replacement unit, the Rams might be worth a look again in the Motor City.
News: The Rams host the Seahawks in Week 4, and after a decent performance against Washington in Week 3, the St. Louis DST might be worth a look as a bye-week replacement in deeper Fantasy leagues. Seattle ranks just 29th in offensive yards this season and is last in the league in time of possession at just 24:35 a contest.
Analysis: The Seahawks really don't have any elite offensive weapons, and Matt Hasselbeck has thrown it to the other team more often than his own this season. The Rams can be tough at home at times, so if you're in a deeper league and scrambling for a DST to fill in during this bye week, think about giving the Rams a shot.
News: St. Louis held Washington to one field goal and one rushing yard in the second half of Week 3. They allowed 116 yards on the ground and 236 yards through the air. They sacked Donovan McNabb once, and LB Bryan Kehl forced an errant pass, which CB Bradley Fletcher intercepted with just over 3:00 remaining in the game. That probably cinched the Rams’ first home win in nearly two years, ending a 14-game home skid. The Rams were without starting DB Oshiomogho Atogwe, who injured his thigh in the second quarter. The other safety, Craig Dahl, was inactive with a concussion, but there was no letup with James Butler and Darian Stewart in the lineup.
Analysis: Next up for the Rams is the Seahawks in Week 4. Seattle managed just 68 yards rushing and 220 yards passing in Week 3 versus San Diego, but did more than enough in the return game to give them a win. Special teams play could be the deciding factor in this game as neither team has a potent offense. Still, the Rams DST should be left on waivers as there are better options for Fantasy owners.
News: The St. Louis Rams defense has allowed 782 total yards combined through the first two weeks of the season heading into it's Week 3 macthup with the Washington Redskins. The team has collected four sacks along the way, but will face it's toughest task to date. Redskins QB Donovan McNabb, who knows Rams coach Steve Spagnulo from their time in Philadelphia, and knows he'll have his guys ready. “I see a team that flies around. Steve (Spagnuolo) is going to try to get these guys in great positions to be free for tackles and be around the ball," McNabb said. "They’re young, but fast. It’s going to be a challenge.”
Analysis: The Rams have caused some turnovers -- two interceptions and six forced fumbles -- but hasn't done enough with them. They are giving up 16.5 points per game through two weeks. Washington is averaging 335.5 yards and 20 points per contest. At this time, the Rams DST shouldn't be on anyone's radar and left on waivers.
News: The Rams defense limited the Raiders to just three points in the first half of Sunday's game but was not as stellar in the second half. St. Louis finished Week 2 with a 16-14 loss to Oakland, despite forcing two sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble. The team gave up 16 unanswered points between the second and fourth quarter. James Butler picked off QB Jason Campbell right before halftime and Jerome Murphy intercepted QB Bruce Gradkowski in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: After giving up 17 points and 378 yards of offense in Week 1, the Rams defense gave up 404 yards against the Raiders, with most coming in the second half. They were able to cause a few turnovers but this young defense is still quite a bit away from being a solid core. With a matchup against the Redskins in Week 3, Fantasy owners would be wise to leave the Rams DST on waivers.
News: After giving up 17 points and 378 yards of offense against the Cardinals in Week 1, the Rams head to the west coast to take on the Raiders in Week 2. Oakland passed for just 151 yards in their opener and ran for another 135 yards. St. Louis was able to limit their Week 1 opponent to 112 yards on the ground and will have to stop the likes of Darren McFadden and Michael Bush to be effective. The Rams has a few guys banged up but it mostly effects their depth.
Analysis: The Rams DST was able to force some turnovers in their opener but gave up 266 yards through the air and lost the game. The Raiders do not pose a serious threat in the passing game but have Louis Murphy and Zach Miller that can cause matchup problems. Defensive guru Steve Spagnuolo knows QB Jason Campbell well from his Giants' days and has a good idea on how to limit him. Even with a matchup against a suspect Raiders offense in Week 2, this DST isn't worth considering in most leagues.
News: Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo announced Monday that three Rams defenders incurred injuries vs. the Cardinals in Week 1 action. CB Kevin Dockery has been diagnosed with a Grade-1 hamstring injury that should keep him out a week; CB Justin King has a low grade hamstring injury that will keep him limited in practice this week; and LB Chris Chamberlain suffered a toe/foot injury that's expected to keep him out for at least six weeks. There's a chance that Chamberlain could miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: These injuries impact the depth of the Rams defense more than anything else. Even with a matchup against a suspect Raiders offense in Week 2, this DST isn't worth considering even if they were at full strength.
News: The Rams defense gave up 17 points and 378 yards of offense against the Cardinals in Week 1 and recorded four fumbles and sacked QB Derek Anderson twice. Defensive lineman Clifton Ryan picked up a fumble in the third quarter that and started rumbling towards the end zone. Steve Breaston caught up to him and made a touchdown-saving play that would have put the Rams up by 10 points, stripping the big fella just short of the end zone.
Analysis: The Rams gave up 52 points and a combined 558 yards of passing in two games against the Cardinals last season, so they fared much better in their first meeting in Week 1. They brought the blitz the whole game and was able to disrupt the Cardinals offense enough to limit their scoring. They face a Raiders team in Week 2 that only mustered 286 yards off offense in Week 1. Consider the Rams defense a low-end No. 2 option for Week 2.
News: The Rams have a rough matchup against the Cardinals in Week 1. St. Louis was 25th in the league against the pass last season and will face off against an Arizona offense that threw for 251 yards per game a year ago. With the likes of Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston at wide receiver for Arizona, St. Louis will have their hands full. The Rams gave up 52 points and a combined 558 yards of passing in two games against the Cardinals last season.
Analysis: The Rams has defensive guru Steve Spagnuolo has their head coach but they ranked near the bottom of the league in most defensive categories last season. Oshiomogho Atogwe and James Laurinaitis have shown promise but Chris Long has not proven his worth just yet. The Cardinals high-flying receivers should be able to carve up the Rams defense so Fantasy owners should stay away from their DST for Week 1.
News: Rams SS James Butler, injured in Friday afternoon’s practice, will “be out for a while” with a right knee injury, coach Steve Spagnuolo said Saturday. "I don't want to classify it as significant," Spagnuolo said. "We'll take it day-to-day, but I think it'll be an extended injury.” Butler suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.Craig Dahl has moved up to the first team to take his place.
Analysis: This could be a big injury for the Rams, for whom Butler was expected to start and help solidify a shaky secondary. He was one of the bright spots on a defense last season that finished 31st in points allowed an 29th in total yardage allowed. With or without Butler, the Rams DST figures to be one of the poorer units in the league, and should be ignored in Fantasy.
News: The Rams and free-agent safety Oshiomogho Atogwe have agreed on a multi-way deal, keeping the veteran in St. Louis. In 12 games last season Atogwe finished second on the team with 82 tackles (38 solo), a sack, two interceptions, three passes defensed, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He ended the year on injured reserve with a shoulder injury but should be OK for the start of training camp. "It's really important to stay here," said Atogwe. "That was one of the things I was thinking about through this process is my purpose with the Rams. I have been here through a lot of the hard times and I believe that was to build the resolve within me, build the resolve within my teammates so when the promised land arrives, we'd be able to enjoy it and know how to be thankful for it."
Analysis: Atogwe will retain his free safety spot and be a key member of the Rams' secondary. He helps the unit, but not enough to make them anything better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST. Expect them to stay on waivers for much of the season.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Rams DB Oshiomogho Atogwe became an unrestricted free agent late Tuesday night. Atogwe is free to negotiate with other NFL teams because he and the Rams couldn't reach agreement on a multi-year deal. The club then declined to sign Atogwe to a one-year tender for $6,976,000 — his 2009 salary plus 10 percent. Although the Rams no longer have exclusive rights to him, they still could sign Atogwe, and league sources indicated that talks would continue.
Analysis: Atogwe was essentially the Rams' best defender and now he's potentially on the move. St. Louis' defense is shaping up to be among the worst in the league, so don't consider the Rams DST a usable Fantasy option. If they start out the season surprising us then consider adding them off the waiver wire during the year.
News: The Rams have traded OT Alex Barron to the Cowboys for outside linebacker Bobby Carpenter. Carpenter is expected to compete for playing time with the Rams.
Analysis: Carpenter will be another decent role player for the Rams defense, but he doesn't improve the entire Rams DST enough to take them out of No. 3 territory. The Rams DST still has plenty of work to do and is not worth using in the majority of leagues. If they start out the season playing well then consider adding the Rams DST off the waiver wire.
News: The Rams DST got some much-needed help on defense with six picks in the NFL Draft. St. Louis selected CB Jerome Murphy in Round 3, DE Hall Davis in Round 5, DE Eugene Sims in Round 6, CB Marquis Johnson in Round 7, DE George Selvie in Round 7 and LB Josh Hull in Round 7. The Rams also helped the DST with WR Mardy Gilyard in Round 4, and Gilyard can make an impact on special teams.
Analysis: The problem with these selections are none of these are impact players except for Gilyard. The Rams DST still has plenty of work to do and is not worth using in the majority of leagues. If they start out the season playing well then consider adding the Rams DST off the waiver wire.
News: The Rams have made their second free-agent signing of the offseason, reaching a deal with veteran defensive tackle Fred Robbins. Robbins is 32 and has played 10 seasons with 116 starts for the Vikings and Giants. He has 28.5 career sacks and was a Pro Bowl alternate in 2008. Most importantly, Robbins was a key member of the 2007 New York team that won the Super Bowl. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo was defensive coordinator for the Giants at the time.
Analysis: Spagnuolo says Robbins will add leadership as well as depth to the defensive tackle position. He also adds size: Robbins is 6-4 and 325 pounds. He's a piece of the puzzle for St. Louis and should help clamp down on the run. Still, he's not enough of a piece to make the Rams a decent DST choice.
News: In the Rams' Week 17 game vs. the 49ers, the DST totaled three sacks of Alex Smith. That's all as Frank Gore steamrolled them. The Rams finished 1-15.
Analysis: Let the chatter begin about the Rams drafting Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh. They certainly could use him to help attack the run and get to the quarterback. The Rams didn't look like much this season, but if they add some quality players this offseason they would have to be considered a sleeper DST under the tutelage of Steve Spagnuolo and his pressure scheme. We'll see what they do, but for now figure that the Rams are untouchable in drafts this summer.
News: The Rams defense didn’t do much to write home about on Sunday in a 31-10 loss at Arizona in Week 16. Cardinals QB Kurt Warner completed 24 of his 38 passes against the Rams’ secondary, throwing for two TDs and 313 yards. On the ground, the Cardinals rushing attack combined for 110 yards and two scores on 32 attempts.
Analysis: The Rams defense has not been too good this season and Week 16 was just more of the same. The Rams DST will face Frank Gore and the 49ers offense in Week 17 and Fantasy owners should continue to stay off this unit.
News: The Rams held their own defensively against the Texans in Week 15. They didn't record any sacks or interceptions, but they held the Texans to 16 points on 419 yards. They also recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Rams DST now has zero sacks and zero interceptions over the last two weeks, making it still worthless in Fantasy even though it has played a little better in recent weeks. It benefited from some good luck against the Texans and likely won't have as much success Week 16 at Arizona. Leave it on waivers.
News: The Rams, coming off two decent defensive performances vs. Seattle and at Chicago, looked more like themselves Week 14 at Tennessee. They allowed 47 points on 446 yards without recording a sack or an interception. They did recover a fumble, though.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the worst in Fantasy and is susceptible to a blowout any given week. It had made small improvements in recent weeks, but not enough for you to consider using it. Leave it on waivers for Week 15 against the Texans.
News: Safety Oshiomogho Atogwe, the second-leading tackler for the St. Louis Rams, will not play again this season. The Rams on Wednesday said Atogwe had been placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury sustained in Sunday's loss at Chicago. Atogwe, a five-year veteran, has 84 tackles, two interceptions, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He had started 60 consecutive games dating to the 2006 opener.
Analysis: Not that anyone was considering the Rams DST to begin with, but Atogwe's absence will hurt the unit further. Go with just about any other option than the Rams DST when they play the Titans in Week 14.
News: The Rams allowed 17 points and 248 yards of total offense in Week 13 at Chicago. They forced a fumble and also recorded two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST has made some small measure of progress in recent weeks, but it was so far behind to begin with that it's still one of the worst units in Fantasy. Leave it on waivers for Week 14 against the Titans' improved offense.
News: The Rams DST gave up 27 points and 265 yards to the Seahawks in a Week 12 loss. They managed one fumble recovery and a single sack.
Analysis: The Rams are one of the worst units in Fantasy play, and you should continue to stay well away from them in Week 12 at Chicago.
News: The Rams had a predictably poor defensive performance against the Cardinals in Week 11. They allowed only 21 points, but on 444 yards. They did record two sacks and recover two fumbles, though.
Analysis: The Rams DST has made some small measure of progress in recent weeks, but it was so far behind to begin with that it's still one of the worst units in Fantasy. Leave it on waivers for Week 12 against the Seahawks.
News: The Rams allowed 28 points and 420 total yards of offense in Week 10 against New Orleans. They forced three turnovers in the game and had one sack.
Analysis: This looked like a blowout in the making on paper, but the Rams played aggressively and got to quarterback Drew Brees early and often. They didn't get a ton of sacks, but they did force him out of any kind of rhythm. They kept Marques Colston completely out of the game and the Rams showed a lot of improvement against perhaps the best offense in football. The Rams will face another tough offense in Week 11 against Arizona. We still don't recommend them as a Fantasy unit, but they are making strides in the right direction.
News: The St. Louis DST had a solid game on Sunday in a Week 8 win over the Lions. They held the Lions to only 10 points, with the TD coming on a Matthew Stafford TD run. Stafford was limited to only 168 yards passing and was intercepted by James Butler. On the ground, the Lions ran for 127 yards on 33 attempts.
Analysis: The Rams DST typically get rocked week in and week out but got lucky to be facing the Liosn in Week 8. The Rams are off Week 9 then face the Saints in Week 10, a game they will obviously not be recommended for.
News: The Rams gave up 42 points and 391 yards to the Colts in a Week 7 loss. St. Louis did not force a turnover or record a sack.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the worst units in Fantasy play and is not even worth a look in Week 8 at Detroit unless you're a masochist.
News: St. Louis DL Leonard Little gave the Rams a 17-13 lead in the fourth quarter of the team's Week 6 23-20 OT loss at Jacksonville when he intercepted a David Garrard pass and took it 36 yards the other way for the score. Little made an athletic catch in the flat to pick off the pass that was intended for Greg Jones. Little also had a sack in the game. The Rams were able to intercept Garrard twice in the game but allowed 335 total yards through the air. On the ground, Maurice Jones-Drew carried the ball 33 times for 133 total yards and all three Jaguars TDs. The Rams also recovered a Jones-Drew fumble.
Analysis: The Rams have been pretty terrible defensively this season and weren't much better in Week 6 with the exception of the interceptions. The Rams face the high-octane Colts in Week 7 and will likely get crushed. Leave them out of all lineups.
News: The Rams DST allowed 38 points and 377 yards to the Vikings in a Week 5 loss. They tallied one interception and two sacks.
Analysis: The Rams have now given up more than 30 points in three straight games and could be in line for another licking in Week 6 when an angry Jaguars team returns home to host St. Louis after getting embarrassed by Seattle on Sunday. Continue to ignore the Rams in all formats.
News: The 49ers broke open their Week 4 showdown with the Rams with 28 points in the second half during a 35-0 rout. St. Louis only trailed by seven points at the half and they shut out the San Francisco offense since their only score came on a muffed punt. But the 49ers offense woke up in the second half and pulled away from St. Louis. The 49ers only managed 228 yards without star running back Frank Gore, who was out with an ankle injury. St. Louis had three sacks, but no turnovers.
Analysis: Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo is known for being a defensive mastermind, but St. Louis has hardly looked the part through four weeks. He has dealt with some injuries, but Spags just doesn't have the personnel he had in New York. The St. Louis defense is still a work in progress, so consider the Rams DST a less than stellar Fantasy option. St. Louis plays Minnesota in Week 5.
News: LB David Vobora of the St. Louis Rams has been suspended without pay for the team's next four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Vobora's suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return to the Rams' active roster Monday, Oct. 26 following the team's October 25 game against the Indianapolis Colts. “Dave's situation is unfortunate," coach Steve Spagnuolo. "He has been a vital part of our team, and we are disappointed that we will be without him for the next four games. However, we respect the league's decision in this matter."
Analysis: Keep Vobora reserved in all leagues. When active, he has minimal Fantasy value. Without him the Rams defense will continue to struggle, and keep them reserved in all leagues for Week 4 at the 49ers.
News: The Rams lost to the Packers in Week 3, 36-17. St. Louis allowed 402 total yards and 36 points in a game that was never really close. The Rams DST came up with two sacks, both coming from Leonard Little. They did not pick off a pass or recover a fumble in the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the least desirable units in the league largely in part to how poor the team's offense is and makes them stay on the field for so long. They have some solid pieces in James Laurinaitis, etc., but overall won't bring you many Fantasy points from week to week. They were especially dormant in Week 3 and we don't like them Week 4 at San Francisco, either.
News: St. Louis used the bend-but-don't-break philosophy for their Week 2 loss to the Redskins in Washington. The Rams DST allowed 362 total yards to Washington but did not give up a touchdown as the Redskins settled for three field goals. Washington was sacked once in the game and that came from DL James Hall. There were no interceptions but St. Louis forced Santana Moss to fumble and recovered.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the least desirable units in the league largely in part to how poor the team's offense is and makes them stay on the field for so long. They have some solid pieces in James Laurinaitis, etc., but overall won't bring you many Fantasy points from week to week. We suggest going in another direction Week 3 at home against Green Bay. The Packers can put up the points.
News: The decisive -- and weirdest -- play of Week 1's contest between the Rams and Seahawks came in the final minute of the first half. Seattle's Olindo Mare struck a 49-yard field goal try low. St. Louis' C.J. Ah You blocked it, and three other Rams could have. Quincy Butler scooped the ball and ran 49 yards for an apparent touchdown. As the Rams were about to snap for the tying extra point, referee Pete Morelli surprised everyone by announcing the booth officials had called for a review - for whether St. Louis had 12 men on the field. Turns out, they did. The Rams' sideline had almost no reaction, as if bewildered at the rare reversal. Three plays later, Hasselbeck found Nate Burleson for a 12-yard touchdown. Instead of 7-7 at halftime, Seattle led 14-0. the Rams defense allowed Matt Hasselbeck to throw for 279 yards and three touchdowns but were able to pick him off twice. The Seahawks rushed for a combined 167 yards on 34 attempts, scoring once on the ground.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the least desirable units in the league largely in part to how poor the team's offense is and makes them stay on the field for so long. James Laurinaitis had an impressive debut in the game with 10 tackles and a fumble recovery, but there were few encouraging signs from St. Louis Week 1. They go up against a lackluster offense at Washington in Week 2 but the Rams are still not a recommended option in any format.
News: After suffering a shoulder injury against the Chiefs in his preseason debut, and the team's preseason finale, DT Adam Carriker was placed on injured reserve, ending his season. The Rams' defense also dispensed with DT Antwon Burton and S Todd Johnson.
Analysis: It might be another long year for the Rams' run defense. In four preseason games, the Rams allowed three rushing touchdowns and 5.1 rushing yards per game. Losing Carriker won't help them stop the run. On the plus side, they registered 12 sacks and five interceptions (one by Johnson), so they can still do other things. Frankly, this DST should be limited to using as a one-week replacement when they have a favorable matchup.
News: The St. Louis Rams have released veteran linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa, the team's leading tackler last season. Coach Steve Spagnuolo made the surprise announcement in a statement released on Friday, calling it a "difficult decision based on a lot of factors." He did not elaborate and the Rams did not return messages seeking comment. Multiple Rams players posted on Twitter that they were shocked and surprised by the release. Tinoisamoa is a six-year veteran who led the team with 135 tackles in 2008.
Analysis: The Rams obviously felt Tinoisamoa was expendable after drafting James Laurinaitis. They remain a No. 3 DST. Don't draft them, but you may find yourself using them off the waiver wire, particularly if they add some serious talent this offseason.
News: Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo began the task of filling out his coaching staff Thursday by hiring Ken Flajole as defensive coordinator. Flajole, 54, is a veteran NFL assistant who comes from Carolina, where he coached linebackers. He has been credited with developing several top-tier linebackers at Carolina, including Jon Beason and Will Witherspoon, who has spent the past three seasons in St. Louis. His first NFL job was with Green Bay in 1998, and he coached in Seattle from 1999-2002 before joining Carolina in 2003. His collegiate coaching career included a stint at Missouri from 1989-93.
Analysis: Look for Spagnuolo and Flajole to make Chris Long a stud in this league as the second-year DE should thrive under him. He'll also utilize other players like LB Will Witherspoon and safety O.J. Atogwe to help his defense improve. These were solid hires by the Rams and it could turn this DST into a sleeper option in 2009. Don't draft them, but you may find yourself using them off the waiver wire, particularly if they add some serious talent this offseason.
News: The Rams have hired Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo as their new head coach. Spagnuolo was the architect of the Giants' sack-happy defense that thwarted New England's run to a perfect season in last year's Super Bowl upset. The 49-year-old Spagnuolo took over as defensive coordinator in New York in 2007. A year before, New York ranked 25th in total defense. Under Spagnuolo in 2007, the Giants ranked seventh, led the league with 53 sacks and made the playoffs. He'll overhaul a Rams defense that was one of the worst in the league in '08.
Analysis: Look for Spagnuolo to make Chris Long a stud in this league as the second-year DE should thrive under him. He'll also utilize other players like LB Will Witherspoon and safety O.J. Atogwe to help his defense improve. This was a solid hire by the Rams and it could turn this DST into a sleeper option in 2009. Don't draft them, but you may find yourself using them off the waiver wire, particularly if they add some serious talent this offseason.
News: The Rams forced three turnovers in Week 17 in Atlanta (two interceptions and a fumble). They gave up 417 yards of offense, though, and 31 points in their 14th loss of the season. They also recorded one sack.
Analysis: The Rams had a miserable 2-14 season that included a lot of big losses. The Rams were never a recommended Fantasy unit this season and will have to make a lot of adjustments in the offseason to correct the many issues that plagued them this season. Then they'll have to prove useful on the field before Fantasy owners will trust them again.
News: The Rams had a surprisingly stout defensive performance against the 49ers in Week 16. They allowed 17 points on 273 yards, recording four sacks and three interceptions and recovering one fumble.
Analysis: The Rams DST remains one of the worst units in Fantasy despite the surprising performance. Leave it on waivers for Week 17 at Atlanta.
News: The Rams defense could have looked worse Week 15 against the Seahawks. It allowed 23 points on 333 yards, recording three sacks and recovering two fumbles.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the worst units in Fantasy and looked merely so-so against the Seahawks. Leave it on waivers for Week 16 against the improved 49ers, who scored 35 points against it in Week 11.
News: The Rams DST allowed the Cardinals to score 34 points on them, allowing 335 yards. They did however have two takeaways with an interception and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Rams defense is one of the worst in football. There has to be a better option out there than them. Ignore them in Fantasy Week 15 against the Seahawks.
News: The Rams DST gave up 16 points and 327 yards to the Dolphins in a Week 13 loss, but only had one turnover (fumble recovery) and failed to make a sack.
Analysis: The Rams DST can sometimes pick up a few sacks, but it remains one of the worst units in Fantasy. You should definitely leave it on waivers for Week 14 at the high-powered Cardinals.
News: St. Louis was pounded by Chicago 27-3 in Week 12 as the Rams DST allowed the Bears to rack up 334 yards of total offense. The Rams did force two turnovers and a sack in the game, though. James Hall got the sack and the other two turnovers were forced fumbles.
Analysis: The Rams DST can sometimes pick up a few sacks, but it remains one of the worst units in Fantasy. You should probably just leave it on waivers for Week 13 against Miami.
News: The Rams defense couldn't take advantage of facing a Mike Martz offense Week 11 at San Francisco, recorded only two sacks. Even worse, it allowed 35 points on 334 yards. It also recovered two fumbles.
Analysis: The Rams DST can sometimes pick up a few sacks, but it remains one of the worst units in Fantasy. You should probably just leave it on waivers for Week 12 against the Bears.
News: St. Louis did not fare well in Week 10, to say the least. The Jets dominated the Rams in every aspect of the game and won 47-3. New York took a 40-0 halftime lead and never looked back, racking up 373 yards of offense against the Rams DST. The Jets did not turn the ball over once and St. Louis didn't sack QB Brett Favre at all.
Analysis: The Rams DST allowed 34 points and 510 yards in a Week 9 loss to the Cardinals and when you couple that with their production in Week 10 against the Jets, this is one of the worst DST options in all of Fantasy football. Do not start them in any format in Week 11 at San Francisco.
News: The Rams DST allowed 34 points and 510 yards in a Week 9 loss to the Cardinals. They also recorded one sack, but did not force a turnover.
Analysis: The Rams DST seemed to be on its way back to respectability over the past few weeks, but Sunday's effort put a stop to that move. In Week 10, St. Louis visits the Jets, and you should not be relying on them in any format.
News: The Rams DST gave up 23 points and 348 yards in a Week 8 loss to New England, but did make two interceptions and three sacks.
Analysis: The Rams DST has improved a lot over the last few weeks, but they face a tough task in Week 9 against the Cardinals. They are at home at least, so keep them in mind if you need an emergency bye-week replacement option.
News: Thanks to a bad game by Cowboys backup QB Brad Johnson, the Rams DST was valuable in Week 7, totaling three sacks, three interceptions and a forced fumble while holding the Cowboys to just 14 points.
Analysis: The Rams DST might be a sleeper in Week 8 again when they play at New England, who is struggling offensively and playing on a short week. There's no denying the play of the Rams' defense since Jim Haslett became their head coach.
News: St. Louis picked up its first win of the season in Week 6 over the Redskins in Washington. An impressive victory considering they didn't score one offensive touchdown. The Rams won 19-17 but allowed Washington to total 368 yards. The highlight of the game was O.J. Atogwe's 85-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Atogwe picked up the ball after offensive lineman Pete Kendall caught and fumbled an batted Jason Campbell pass. The Redskins, who hadn't committed a turnover all season, were forced into three by the Rams, all fumbles. The Rams also picked up four sacks of Campbell.
Analysis: The Rams face the Cowboys at home in Week 7. St. Louis was never considered a high-end Fantasy DST option and will almost certainly have a worse week in Week 7. We don't recommend starting them in Week 7.
News: St. Louis DB Ricky Manning had to be helped off the field after injuring his foot in Week 6 in Washington. Manning was put on a golf cart and taken to the locker room before halftime. It is not known the extent of the injury yet.
Analysis: The Rams secondary was already thin. This one will definitely hurt. The Rams DST was never a viable option in Fantasy anyway, however. Manning is not considered a viable Fantasy IDP option in the secondary at this time.
News: The Rams will come off their Week 5 bye to face the streaking Washington Redskins in Week 6 on the road. Washington's offense ranks sixth in the NFL in yards per game (351.2) with an average of 25.5 points over each of their last four games, all wins.
Analysis: The Rams allowed 31 points and 277 yards of total offense in Week 4 vs. Buffalo. They've been one of the worst defensive units in the league, allowing the second most total yards per game in the NFL (411.8). Right now, there is no reason to own them in Fantasy.
News: The Rams allowed 31 points and 277 yards of total offense in Week 4 vs. Buffalo. They forced one turnover and sacked QB Trent Edwards four times.
Analysis: The Rams have been one of the worst teams against the run and the pass this season and despite getting off to a good start in this game, they gave up 25 points in the second half. Stay far away from the Rams in Fantasy -- far, far away.
News: The Rams DST gave up 407 yards and 37 points to the Seahawks in Week 3 loss. They recorded one sack, but could not come up with an interception or a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Rams have given up an average of 457 yards a game, but they're improving every week. However, the quality of their opponents has also declined every week, so you have to take that into account. In Week 4, the Rams will take on Buffalo. The Bills aren't the most explosive offensive team, but they'll be salivating to face the Rams on Sunday. Continue to ignore the St. Louis DST in all formats.
News: The Rams, after allowing 522 yards in Week 1 against Philadelphia, gave up 441 yards and 41 points in Week 2 against the Giants. They did not force any turnovers and recorded two sacks, by Victor Adeyanju and rookie Chris Long.
Analysis: So that's 963 yards and 76 points in two games if you are keeping score at home. They've been playing without their best defensive lineman in Leonard Little, but even his presence wouldn't make this defense much better right now. Leave them on the waiver wire in all leagues until they can straighten themselves out. Don't even think about starting them for Week 3 at Seattle even though Seattle's offense has been less than stellar.
News: After getting burned for 522 yards in the season opener, the St. Louis Rams will likely go against the New York Giants without starting DE Leonard Little. Little left last week's 38-3 loss at Philadelphia on the fourth play with a hamstring injury. His playing status remains unknown. "I might not even play at all," Little said Thursday. "It's going to be a matter of how I feel on Saturday. Right now, I'm trying to get back. I'm rehabbing it and trying to get back as quick as I can." Little has not practiced this week. The 33-year-old missed the last nine games of 2007 with a toe injury that required surgery. He had a good training camp and played during the preseason.
Analysis: Little played in just seven games last season due to injury and it's not a good sign to see him fighting injury this early in 2008. Little is a decent sack specialist when at 100 percent, but he could be on the decline of his career thanks to injuries. His absence would make the Rams DST go from bad to worse.
News: The Rams allowed 38 points and 522 yards of total offense in Week 1 at Philadelphia. They did not record a sack and did not force a turnover in the game.
Analysis: The Rams were picked apart by quarterback Donovan McNabb to the tune of 361 yards through the air. They gave up big play after big play and completely blew a coverage on a 90-yard touchdown pass to Hank Baskett. This was a horrible start for the Rams defense and they'll get another tough offense in Week 2 against the Giants. They'll have the home crowd behind them in that game, but should not be active in any Fantasy league coming off this performance.
News: It didn't matter that it came against a substitute-filled lineup, the St. Louis Rams were still pleased with the team's defensive improvement in the second preseason game. Regardless of who was on the other side of the line, players and coaches felt what was most important was they were in the right place to make plays in the 7-6 victory on Saturday against the Chargers, unlike the 34-13 drubbing they took in Nashville against the Titans the previous week. "They played their butts off," tight end Randy McMichael said. "We put them in some bad spots, especially our first team, and they were able to hold them. If the defense can keep doing that, once we get our offense together we'll be fine."
Analysis: A unit bolstered by first-round picks the past three years, including second overall selection Chris Long in April, could be the strength of a team that was 3-13 last season and used to be known for its high-flying offense. The Chargers, who had only three offensive starters in the lineup, mustered only 203 net yards after the Titans rang up St. Louis for 495 -- including 340 on the ground. Linebacker Will Witherspoon said Monday that shutting down the Chargers was largely a point of pride for a group embarrassed by those big numbers. Coach Scott Linehan said the tackling was better against the Chargers. Stopping the run was a big emphasis in the practice week. Still, it's only preseason and until the Rams can be this dominant in-season, the Rams DST is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Attempting to blend in at his first NFL training camp, Chris Long steadfastly refuses to lean on his status as the second overall pick of the NFL draft and his inherited distinction as the son of a Hall of Famer. Never mind the five-year, $48 million contract that makes him the Rams' second-highest paid player behind only quarterback Marc Bulger's six-year, $65 million deal. Forget his status, too, as the teams' No. 1 interview subject in camp, by far. If you can. "All the rookies, we're the same," Long said. "We all get the day-to-day, lighthearted, hazing kind of stuff." The funny thing is, he appears to believe it. Factoring in the ups and downs that every rookie encounters, Long immediately upgrades what had been an anemic pass rush. Yet perhaps his strongest asset in camp has been taking the constant coaching in stride, and realizing the 3-13 team needs him now.
Analysis: With Long aboard, the Rams' defensive line is headed for a boost. Long is a solid pass rusher with good run defense skills. Figure him to be a solid No. 3 Fantasy DL in 2008. It's hard to expect the world from a rookie player.
News: The Rams selected Virginia DE Chris Long with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. He is expected to start immediately in the Rams' defense as a defensive end, lining up next to DT Adam Carriker.
Analysis: With Long aboard, the Rams' defensive line is headed for a boost. Long is a solid pass rusher with good run defense skills. The Rams defense will be improved with this addition, but not enough to make it any better than a No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2008.
News: Some people pegged the Rams DST to be a dynamo sleeper in 2007. Instead, they got stepped on by just about everybody they played. As a unit, they totaled 31 sacks, 18 interceptions, 23 fumble recoveries and three total touchdowns (two on defense, one on a punt return). The Rams ranked 20th against the run and 21st against the run and were hammered by injuries and suspect play.
Analysis: Unless the Rams bulk up their defense this offseason, expect them to trend toward the bottom third of Fantasy DSTs. It doesn't help that their division is getting better either. It's best to ignore the Rams DST in 2008 drafts for now.
News: The Rams DST was responsible for two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown) and a forced fumble at Arizona in Week 17.
Analysis: The Rams DST needs to make solid improvements in all areas to be considered a decent option in 2008. Expect them to go undrafted next summer.
News: The Steelers might as well have been playing a pee-wee football team Week 16 because the Rams defense didn't pose much of a threat. The only thing the Rams had going was that they knocked out All-Pro running back Willie Parker with a leg injury early in the first quarter. But they let Ben Roethlisberger and backup RB Najeh Davenport run all over them to the tune of 41 points and 425 total yards. The Rams forced zero turnovers, but managed four sacks.
Analysis: It has been a disappointing 2007 campaign for the Rams and it was evident Week 16. They are likely to find themselves in a shootout with the Cardinals Week 17 and it is not recommended that you start the Rams DST. Sure, they might pick off Kurt Warner a few times, but it likely won't be enough to counter the points and yards the Cardinals will post.
News: The Rams allowed 33 points and 279 yards of offense in Week 15 vs. Green Bay. They forced three turnovers -- two interceptions and a fumble -- and had no sacks.
Analysis: The Rams defense is not a desirable unit in Fantasy play at such a critical juncture of the Fantasy season, especially in Week 16 vs. Pittsburgh Thursday night.
News: The Rams DST totaled two interceptions, one sack and one forced fumble and recovery at Cincinnati in Week 14.
Analysis: The Rams DST remains one of the least desirable Fantasy options, and that's especially the case in Week 15 when the Packers come to St. Louis. Keep them off of Fantasy rosters.
News: The Rams DST allowed 435 yards to Atlanta in St. Louis' 28-16 win over the Falcons in Week 13, but got four sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery in the victory.
Analysis: The Rams DST is an aggressive, speedy unit and has a nice matchup in Week 14 against the turnover-prone Bengals. Start them in deeper leagues if your No. 1 unit has a poor matchup.
News: The Rams DST had five sacks and an interception Sunday against Seattle. Dante Hall also had six kickoff returns for a 28.2-yard average and two punt return for a 25.5-yard average. The Rams also got a safety from Adam Carriker.
Analysis: The Rams DST should be considered a low-end option in Week 13 against the Falcons. Only the ST unit is worth starting in deeper leagues.
News: The Rams defense had one of its best games of the season Week 11 at San Francisco, holding the 49ers to nine points on 244 yards. The Rams also had three sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Their special teams gained 91 yards.
Analysis: Don't get too excited about this game. Any team's DST would thrive against the 49ers. Leave the Rams on waivers for Week 12 against the Seahawks.
News: The Rams DST travels to San Francisco Sunday in Week 9. The Niners have the worst offense, and they have allowed 28 sacks this season.
Analysis: The Rams DST has been inconsistent all seasons, but they should do well against the Niners' pathetic offense. Even so, we only recommend this DST unit in leagues larger than 12 teams.
News: The Rams DST had one sack and two interceptions Sunday against the Saints. Will Witherspoon had the sack, and O.J. Atogwe and Pisa Tinoisamoa had the two interceptions. Travis Minor had one kickoff return for 21 yards, and Brandon Williams had one kickoff return for 24 yards. The Rams were without Dante Hall, who was inactive.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not worth using in any league. Keep them reserved in all leagues in Week 11 at the 49ers.
News: The Rams DST travels to New Orleans in Week 10. The Saints are ranked sixth in total offense (fourth in the passing game and 24th in the running game).
Analysis: The Rams DST is ranked 19th in total defense, but they've lost DE Leonard Little for the season with a toe injury and they are expected to struggle against QB Drew Brees and Company. Don't start them this week.
News: Four teams are on a bye in Week 9: Chicago, Miami, St. Louis and the N.Y Giants.
Analysis: The Rams DST ranks 20th in total defense this season, including 12th against the pass and 25th against the run. They have only 12 sacks and five interceptions though, which currently ranks them among the worst. In Week 10, they'll travel to face New Orleans in the Crescent City. The Saints are an improving club, so that's not a great matchup for them.
News: The Rams DST gave up 368 yards and only had two sacks in St. Louis' 27-20 loss to the Browns in Week 8.
Analysis: The Rams are off in Week 9, so be sure to find a suitable replacement unit. They return to action against the Saints in Week 10, and with New Orleans looking better on offense lately, they will be nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: St. Louis hosts the Cleveland Browns and their seventh-ranked offense Sunday in Week 8. The Browns are eighth in passing and 14th in the running game so far this season.
Analysis: The Rams DST ranks 18th in total defense, 10th against the pass and 24th against the run. The Rams have only 10 sacks and just five interceptions this season. We don't recommend starting the Rams DST in most Fantasy formats. The Rams are on a bye in Week 9, so they might regroup after the break.
News: The visiting Rams allowed 33 points on 289 yards to the Seahawks in Week 7, though five Marc Bulger turnovers certainly worked against them. Their defense registered one interception and one sack while their special teams gained 171 yards.
Analysis: The Rams DST entered Sunday's game 21st in total defense (10th against the pass and 27th against the run), so it rarely makes much of a Fantasy impact -- not the positive kind, anyway. Keep it on waivers for Week 8 against the Browns.
News: Seattle will host the Rams DST in Week 7 in a divisional matchup Sunday. The Seahawks rank 18th in total offense (eighth in the passing game and 22nd in the running game).
Analysis: The Rams DST is 21st in total defense (10th against the pass and 27th against the run). They have just nine sacks and four interceptions. We don't recommend starting this DST unit in Fantasy play.
News: The Rams managed to hold the Ravens to one touchdown in a Week 6 loss, but allowed Matt Stover to kick five field goals and the Ravens dropped 22 points on the scoreboard. The Rams allowed 248 yards, forced two sacks and two turnovers (one interception and one fumble).
Analysis: The Rams came into Week 6 with one of the worst defenses in the league, but did a fairly good job of keeping Baltimore out of the end zone. The Rams are still have a lot of work to do to become a viable Fantasy DST. Consider using other options Week 7. The Rams travel to Seattle.
News: St. Louis will travel to Baltimore to face the Ravens on Sunday. The Ravens' passing tame is ranked 10th in the league, and their rushing game is 14th. Baltimore has allowed six sacks and Steve McNair has thrown three interceptions.
Analysis: The Rams DST is ranked 27th in the NFL and we do not recommend starting them against this Ravens team.
News: The Rams DST continued to struggle, allowing 27 of the Cardinals' 34 points in Week 5 and totaling one sack (by Will Witherspoon), two interceptions (both by Fakhir Brown) and a forced fumble (Witherspoon). The Cardinals totaled 290 pass yards and 102 rush yards; the loss pushes them to 0-5.
Analysis: The Rams DST was a sleeper unit at the beginning of the season, but now they should be put to sleep. Don't use them unless you don't have a choice. The Rams play at Baltimore in Week 6.
News: Arizona ranks 13th in total offense, including 12th against the pass and 16th against the run. They will take on St. Louis' 24th-ranked total defense at the Edward Jones Dome Sunday.
Analysis: The Rams DST is ninth against the pass and 29th against the run. They have only six sacks and they have given up a league-high seven rushing touchdowns so far. They are not a recommended start in most formats.
News: The Rams DST got a touchdown Sunday against Dallas when Dante Hall had an 85-yard punt return. Hall finished with four returns for a 27.8-yard average and five kickoff returns for a 55.2-yard average. Hall was the only good player for the Rams on Sunday. The Rams DST also had a sack and an interception.
Analysis: The Rams DST is a No. 2 option at best in Week 5 against Arizona.
News: Dallas travels to St. Louis in Week 4 and the Rams DST will have their hands full against the best scoring offense in the NFL (38.7 points per game).
Analysis: The Rams DST isn't a horrible one statistically -- they rank seventh in total defense, third in passing defense and 28th in rushing defense. But that's sort of an anomaly, since teams feel they don't need to pass against them, since they can run successfully. Keep this unit benched in Week 4.
News: Playing at Tampa Bay in Week 3, the Rams defense totaled one sack and a pair of forced fumbles. The Rams could not corral QB Jeff Garcia, who avoided the pass rush for most of the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST is unusable in Fantasy play, and shouldn't be touched in Week 4 at Dallas.
News: The Rams DST had two fumble recoveries and four sacks Sunday against the 49ers. Dante Hall had three punt returns for a 2.7-yard average and three kickoff returns for an 18-yard average. Hall also lost a fumble.
Analysis: The Rams DST is a low-end option for Week 3 against Tampa Bay.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Rams CB Tye Hill is out indefinitely with a back injury. It is believed that Hill hurt his back at practice on Thursday. Lenny Walls is expected to replace Hill, with rookie Jonathan Wade moving into the No. 3 CB/nickelback role.
Analysis: The Rams host the 49ers on Sunday. Niners RB Frank Gore has pummeled the Rams of late and is expected to keep doing so. The Rams DST is not a recommended play for Week 2 Fantasy action.
News: Frank Gore romped through the St. Louis Rams' defense for 261 yards in two games last season. Judging by the Rams' shaky debut against the run, reflecting no improvement, the San Francisco 49ers' running back might just be anticipating another big day. The Rams' run defense ranked at the bottom of the NFL last year, and couldn't stop the less-heralded Carolina Panthers duo of DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams in the season opener, yielding 186 yards rushing. Now St. Louis faces a back who ranked second in the NFL in rushing and receiving yards in 2006 behind the Rams' Steven Jackson. "I think we're going to be better," St. Louis defensive coordinator Jim Haslett said. "We'll find out."
Analysis: Gore set a franchise record with 1,695 yards rushing and 485 receiving last year for San Francisco, and two of his nine 100-yard games came against the Rams. They might not get him at full strength after Gore missed the preseason with a broken hand and then showed signs of rust in the opener, totaling 55 yards and a touchdown in a victory over the Cardinals. Then again, Arizona has had success against Gore, twice holding him below 100 yards last season. The Rams, on the other hand, also surrendered 100-yard games to Mike Bell, Noah Herron, Maurice Morris and Ladell Betts in 2006. We don't recommend starting the Rams DST in Week 2.
News: The Rams defense allowed 387 total yards to the Panthers in Week 1 and finished with just two forced fumbles. The club didn't generate any sacks or interceptions.
Analysis: Look for the Rams defense to put on a better performance in Week 2 vs. San Francisco, but they're still not a top-12 Fantasy DST option.
News: Even before the first preseason game, St. Louis Rams DE Leonard Little was convinced things would be different this year. A strong initial effort did nothing to change his view. The Rams limited the Vikings to 215 yards and three points in a 13-10 opening exhibition victory last Friday, holding Minnesota's offense to three points. St. Louis, next to last in the NFL against the run last year, allowed 87 yards rushing. The Rams struggled last year in a new system under defensive coordinator Jim Haslett. Players have said from the first day of training camp there's a much higher comfort level with a season under their belts. St. Louis again addressed defense in the offseason, adding end James Hall as a complement to Little and DL Adam Carriker in the first round. LB Pisa Tinoisamoa's return to health after an injury-plagued 2006 also is a plus.
Analysis: Little said it's time the defense, which allowed nine 100-yard rushing games in the first 12 weeks and 10 overall, held up its end. The Rams DST could be a decent sleeper candidate if the defense improves. With the addition of Dante Hall as a return man, the special teams should see a boost. Consider the Rams DST a No. 2 option with a lot of upside.
News: Rams return man Dante Hall, who has a strained hamstring, probably won't play in the preseason opener Friday at Minnesota. Coach Scott Linehan said the injury began to creep up on Hall late last week, but said holding him out would just be a precaution.
Analysis: Expect Hall to be fine for the start of the season. He should improve the Rams DST and ST units, but he's not the same player he once was with the Chiefs. The Rams DST and ST units should be considered bye-week replacements at best.
News: St. Louis Rams cornerback Fakhir Brown said Monday he was suspended for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy because he accidentally missed a drug test and is appealing the penalty. Brown, who started 14 games last season, was suspended earlier this month for the first four games of the season. He said a meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has not been scheduled. "I really don't know what's going to happen," Brown said. "Right now I'm just waiting to talk to the commissioner. You never know how things are going right now."
Analysis: Brown, 29, started 14 games for the Rams last season. He tied for the team high with three interceptions and had one sack. He missed two games with an ankle injury. He signed a five-year deal as a free agent with the Rams in 2006 after spending his first four NFL seasons with New Orleans. Browns addition should strengthen the Rams DST as a whole, but he might still have to serve a suspension. Look for them to be a No. 2 DST in 2007.
News: Rams' first-round draft pick DT Adam Carriker was expected to be on the practice field Friday, hours after agreeing to a five-year contract. Carriker played defensive end at Nebraska, where he was the Big 12 defensive lineman of the year as a senior, leading the Cornhuskers with seven sacks. He is expected to move to defensive tackle for the Rams, who have struggled in recent years at that position.
Analysis: The Rams' defense has quietly added some nice depth and talent this offseason, adding DB Todd Johnson, LB Chris Draft and CB Mike Rumph and trading for DE James Hall. Tacking on Carriker won't hurt, and there's certainly some room for them to improve from being a No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007; consider drafting them in deeper leagues as a nice bye-week replacement. If you need icing on the cake, remember: They traded for KR Dante Hall.
News:The Daily Reveille, the school paper of LSU, reports that Rams DT Claude Wroten, an ex-LSU Tiger, was arrested on one count of simple criminal damage to property on the LSU campus.
Analysis: Wroten provides depth along the D-line for the Rams, but isn't a key contributor. While Wroten will be subject to a suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy, this news does not affect the Rams DST at all.
News: The Rams took Nebraska DE Adam Carriker with their first-round pick (13th overall) in the 2007 NFL Draft. An explosive and strong defensive end, Carriker is as fast (4.8 in the 40-yard dash) as he is tall (6-foot-6). He also is good at getting in on tackles particularly on the edges, which will definitely help the Rams in run defense.
Analysis: The Rams' defense has quietly added some nice depth and talent this offseason, adding DB Todd Johnson, LB Chris Draft and CB Mike Rumph and trading for DE James Hall. Tacking on Carriker won't hurt, and there's certainly some room for them to improve from being a No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007; consider drafting them in deeper leagues as a nice bye-week replacement. If you need icing on the cake, remember: They traded for KR Dante Hall.
News: The Rams have traded a fifth-round pick to the Chiefs in exchange for WR/KR Dante Hall. Hall is considered an excellent returner on special teams and can be used as a slot receiver as well. "We have filled a need with one of the top players in football at his specialty, returning punts and kicks," said Rams head coach Scott Linehan in a statement. "Dante will fit in nicely on our special teams and can be utilized as a receiver in certain situations."
Analysis: While the Rams defense has improved as far as depth goes this offseason, Hall's arrival clinches their special teams as one of the better ones in the NFC heading into 2007 (and the best in the NFC West). Consider the Rams DST a good No. 2 Fantasy DST worth using as a bye-week replacement when the matchup is right.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Rams will keep LB Will Witherspoon in the middle in 2007. It was initially believed that newcomer Chris Draft would take over the middle. "One thing about putting him in the middle, he's able to be a more productive tackler for us, and play sideline to sideline from there," coach Scott Linehan said. "He's got one full year of playing (middle) linebacker full-time. It'd be hard for me to believe he's not going to be a lot better next year."
Analysis: The Rams' defense has quietly added some nice depth and talent this offseason, adding LB Chris Draft, DB Todd Johnson and trading for DE James Hall. There's certainly some room for them to improve from being a No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007; consider drafting them in deeper leagues as a nice bye-week replacement.
News: The Charlotte Observer reports that the Rams have signed ex-Panthers LB Chris Draft to a three-year deal. Draft filled in as a middle linebacker for Carolina last season in place of Dan Morgan and could fill any spot at linebacker or provide depth. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Rams have signed CB Mike Rumph to a one-year deal. Rumph will compete for a spot along the CB depth chart in training camp this summer.
Analysis: The Rams' defense has quietly added some nice depth and talent this offseason, adding DB Todd Johnson and trading for DE James Hall. There's certainly some room for them to improve from being a No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007; consider drafting them in deeper leagues as a nice bye-week replacement.
News: The Rams announced the signing of DB Todd Johnson, formerly of the Chicago Bears. In six starts last season, Johnson had 34 total tackles (19 solo) with a pass defensed and a forced fumble.
Analysis: Johnson will end up providing depth at safety for the Rams. His signing does nothing to improve the value of their DST, which is at best a No. 2 unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: ESPNEWS reports that the Lions have traded DE James Hall to the Rams for a fifth-round pick. In 2006, Hall had 17 solo tackles, five sacks and a forced fumble. In seven NFL seasons, Hall has 33 sacks (one year, 2004, with 10-plus sacks).
Analysis: Hall should wind up sharing playing time with second-year DE Victor Adeyanju opposite Leonard Little. This will help the Rams generate a few more sacks, but it's not a big enough move to consider their DST unit for 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The Rams defense/special teams did not impress many in 2006. In total, they had 34 sacks (13 by DE Leonard Little), 17 interceptions, 23 fumble recoveries, zero special teams touchdowns and two defensive touchdowns.
Analysis: St. Louis' defense will need to make some significant changes to warrant consideration in Fantasy play in 2007. For now, expect them to be available on the waiver wire during the season.
News: The Rams DST yielded 21 points and 293 total yards to the Vikings in Week 17. LB Will Witherspoon, DL Jimmy Kennedy and DL Leonard Little all had one sack. While DB Ronald Bartell had two interceptions, including one he returned 38 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Rams did not have a good year defensively and will not be a popular pick on Draft Day 2007. They might be taken as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST. Witherspoon and Little are top-end Fantasy players in IDP leagues and both players will likely be drafted before the middle rounds next season.
News: The Rams DST had a fumble recovery against the Redskins and nothing eles. DB Corey Chavous had four tackles and a fumble recovery. LB Will Witherspoon had five tackles. DL Leonard Little had five tackles. DB O.J. Atogwe had eight tackles.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not a recommended option for Week 17 against the Vikings but use all regular IDP players as needed.
News: The St. Louis Rams DST did not allow any points in Week 15 at Oakland and they allowed 260 total net yards. The Rams also posted four sacks, three interceptions and one fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Rams took advantage of the awful Raiders and they might have more success in Week 16 against QB Jason Campbell and the Redskins.
News: DB Tye Hill (thigh), LB Isaiah Kacyvenski (concussion), LB Leonard Little (neck) and LB Raonall Smith (thigh) are not among the inactives for Week 15 at Oakland.
Analysis: None of the defensive players are worth using in any Fantasy leagues.
News: Coach Scott Linehan said rookie Victor Adeyanju, will be questionable this week in his second attempt to return from a broken forearm. Adeyanju abandoned his effort to return after missing only game late last week.
Analysis: Adeyanju is not a player which can make a difference in the Fantasy value of the Rams DST.
News: The St. Louis Rams allowed 42 points and 372 total net yards in Week 14 against the Bears. They also did not record any interceptions, sacks or fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Rams defense might post better than average Fantasy numbers for Week 15 at Oakland against their dismal offense.
News: The St. Louis Rams have announced that DL Victor Adeyanju (forearm), LB Jon Alston, TE Dominique Byrd, S Jerome Carter (ankle), QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, LB Isaiah Kacyvenski (concussion), OT Jeremy Parquet and C Larry Turner are inactive for Week 14 against the Bears.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are recommended Fantasy options when healthy.
News: The Rams defense struggled in Week 13 against the Cardinals, giving up 34 points and 316 yards. They only got one sack (La'Roi Glover) and managed no turnovers.
Analysis: Consider the Rams DST a one-week sleeper when the struggling Bears offense comes to town in Week 14. Consider Glover a low-end Fantasy option in IDP leagues.
News: DE Victor Adeyanju (forearm) is expected to miss at least three to four weeks due to a radius fracture of his right forearm.
Analysis: With Adeyanju out of the mix, Brandon Green will be plugged into the lineup. The Rams DST is a low-end Fantasy option in most leagues with or without Adeyanju.
News: Rams DL Victor Adeyanju suffered what's believed to be a fractured right forearm in the first half of Sunday's 20-17 victory over San Francisco. Adeyanju will undergo additional testing Monday, but if the original diagnosis holds, he almost certainly will miss the remainder of the season. Brandon Green got most of the playing time in place of Adeyanju. But rookie Claude Wroten, drafted as a defensive tackle, also saw time at end. LB Raonall Smith, who has played end in some passing situations all season, had an increased role.
Analysis: If Adeyanju is out for an extended period of time as expected, reserve him immediately. The Rams DST is struggling and should not be used at this time.
News: The Rams gave up 20 points and 319 total yards to the 49ers in Week 12. DB O.J. Atogwe and DB Tye Hill had interceptions for the Rams.
Analysis: The Rams have been playing so-so defense this season and it is really hard to guage which team will show up on a weekly basis. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST against the Cardinals in Week 13. Atogwe and Hill can both be used as low-end Fantasy DBs.
News: It's a weekly topic at Rams Park: What's wrong with a defense that can't stop the run? The St. Louis Rams had an excuse when they were getting gouged by LaDainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson, because those running backs put up big numbers against a lot of teams. Still, it's quite another story when Panthers backup DeAngelo Williams gets 114 yards in last week's 15-0 victory. Or Seahawks backup Maurice Morris racks up 124 yards with a 5.9-yard average. Despite a concentrated effort to improve the defense in the offseason, the Rams are next-to-last in the NFL against the run. The Panthers totaled 242 yards last week, St. Louis has surrendered seven 100-yard games, and the opposition is averaging 153 yards on the ground.
Analysis: The Rams face the 49ers in Week 12 and RB Frank Gore is coming off a career-best 212 rushing yards. It might not be pretty showing in Week 12 for the Rams DST and it is recommended you use another DST option.
News: The Rams allowed 15 points off a touchdown, two field goals and a safety in Week 11 at Carolina. They gave up 411 yards of offense, but did intercept two passes as well as forced one fumble. They picked up three sacks, two by La'Roi Glover.
Analysis: The Rams defense did not play poorly despite the loss. They've been a decent Fantasy option in leagues of 12-plus teams and should be considered just that for Week 12 when they take on the 49ers.
News: Cornerback Travis Fisher will be sidelined perhaps a month with a broken right forearm, an injury that will move first-round pick Tye Hill into the lineup. Fisher was hurt tackling Seahawks fullback Mack Strong after a short catch in the third quarter.
Analysis: The Rams defense might be worth a look in Week 11 at Carolina based on what the Buccaneers were able to do their offense on Monday night.
News: The Rams defense held the Seahawks to just 283 yards, but gave up 24 points in a Week 10 loss. The Rams defense did get six sacks and recovered two fumbles. Rams DL Leonard Little had two sacks, LB Will Witherspoon had two sacks, DB O.J. Atogwe had one sack, as did LB Brandon Chillar. Atogwe also forced two fumbles and Little forced one fumble. DL Victor Adeyanju returned a fumble 89 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Rams have been a less-than-desireable Fantasy unit of late and are not a recommended Fantasy option in leagues of less than 12 teams for Week 11 when they visit Carolina. Little and Witherspoon are must-start Fantasy IDP players. Atogwe is a low-end Fantasy DB.
News: The St. Louis Rams allowed 31 points and 317 yards of offense in Week 9 vs. Kansas City. They did not force any turnovers, but did sack QB Damon Huard twice.
Analysis: The Rams have been a less-than-desireable Fantasy unit of late and are not a recommended Fantasy option in leagues of less than 12 teams for Week 10 when they visit Seattle.
News: Rams CB Travis Fisher practiced on Friday after hurting his ankle in practice on Thursday. He remains probable for Week 9 vs. Kansas City. LB Pisa Tinoisamoa, however, did not practice all week.
Analysis: Neither player would impact the Rams in becoming a substantial Fantasy defense to use against the Chiefs in Week 9. Keep 'em benched.
News: A week after LaDainian Tomlinson steamrolled the St. Louis Rams, along comes Larry Johnson to administer more punishment. Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs' 230-pound feature back, likely is licking his chops. He had 155 yards on a franchise-record 39 carries and caught two passes for a total of 41 touches last week against the Steelers, yet claimed no soreness the next day. "My body feels fine," Johnson said. "I don't get hit. I give hits. I don't have to spend extra time anywhere."
Analysis: The Rams have not been a good Fantasy DST unit this season and things don't look as they will get any better in Week 9 as Johnson and the Chiefs come to town. Needless to say, sit the Rams DST, if you have not already cut them.
News: The Rams defense had a sack at San Diego in Week 8, and that's all. The Chargers totaled 38 points and over 400 yards of offense in the game. LaDainian Tomlinson totaled over 200 yards and three TDs.
Analysis: Next up for the Rams defense? Larry Johnson and the Chiefs. Yep ... sit the Rams in Week 9. Don't worry, they play Shaun Alexander and the Seahawks in Week 10. Maybe now is a good time to cut the Rams defense.
News: The Rams will play at San Diego in Week 8 and face off against Philip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Gates. The Chargers are fourth in the NFL in total offense and have averaged 29.7 points per game.
Analysis: The Rams defense has not come up big for Fantasy owners very often this season, so using them now in leagues isn't advised, especially against San Diego in Week 8.
News: The St. Louis Rams traded DE Anthony Hargrove to the Buffalo Bills on Monday for a fifth-round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Hargrove lost his starting job with the Rams after skipping two days of practice and meetings earlier this season. He is not worth using in IDP leagues. His loss does not affect the value of the Rams DST, nor does it increase the appeal of the Bills DST.
News: The St. Louis defense totaled four sacks and a forced fumble and recovery vs. Seattle in Week 6. However, they yielded 30 points and over 300 yards of offense to the Seahawks.
Analysis: St. Louis' defense is not a very reliable unit unless they face a soft offense. The Rams are on bye in Week 7 but play at San Diego in Week 8. Keep the Rams defense on the waiver wire.
News: The Rams defense got a pair of sacks and a pair of fumble recoveries at Green Bay in Week 5.
Analysis: The Rams' defense had been scoring well in leagues, but that's not the case in Week 5. Definitely sit them in Week 6 when they host a rested Seattle offense -- with or without Shaun Alexander.
News: The Rams defense totaled two sacks and two interceptions of Jon Kitna vs. Detroit in Week 4, though they did yield 34 points and over 370 total yards.
Analysis: The Rams defense has been a nice surprise this season, but starting them against strong offenses isn't a good idea, thus they're not a must-start option. The Rams play at Green Bay in Week 5, a team that can throw the ball around, so don't use the Rams defense unless you have no other choice.
News: Turnovers was the name of the game in Week 3 between the Cardinals and Rams. Lucky for the Rams they were the team that forced the most turnovers resulting in a win. They intercepted Cardinals QB Kurt Warner three times and forced Warner to make a mental error on a QB-Center exchange late in the fourth quarter as the Cardinals were going for the winning score. The Rams allowed 347 yards and 14 points. LB Will Witherspoon, DB Corey Chavous and DL Victor Adeyanju all had six tackles. DB O.J. Atogwe, DB Fakhir Brown and LB Dexter Coakley all had interceptions.
Analysis: Outside of letting up 347 yards, the Rams defense played fairly well against a very explosive Cardinals offense. The Rams defense continue to show improvements, so consider them as a viable DST when the matchup is favorable. Week 4 might present that matchup as the Lions come to town.
9/17/2006
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Rams D struggles in loss
News: The Rams gave up 360 yards of offense and 20 points in a Week 2 loss at San Francisco. They did not sack QB Alex Smith, did not intercept a pass but did force a fumble. They allowed Frank Gore to rush for 127 yards. LB Will Witherspoon led the team with eight tackles.
Analysis: The Rams defense took a slight step back in Week 2 after having a monster Week 1 vs. the Broncos. Still consider them a sleeper defense at this point, and use caution with starting them Week 3 against Arizona, a potentially explosive offense.
9/10/2006
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Rams DST shuts down Broncos
News: The Rams allowed just 10 points in their Week 1 win vs. Denver. They made three interceptions and held the Broncos to 259 yards in the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST had a great start to the season and could emerge as a sleeper unit through the season. They are a decent option for Week 2 at San Francisco.
9/7/2006
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Rams defense improved over offseason
News: The biggest changes for St. Louis this offseason are on a defense ranked 30th last year that was fortified with the addition of MLB Will Weatherspoon, DT La'Roi Glover, CB Fakhir Brown and safeties Oshiomogho Atogwe and Corey Chavous. Three of the four were free agents and Atogwe played sparingly as a rookie after being picked in the third round. First-round pick Tye Hill is a cornerback who'll likely play in nickel and dime packages while he learns the NFL, and new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett will be trying to restore his reputation after being fired by the Saints. "We got better," said defensive end Leonard Little, who had 9 1-2 sacks last season. "Those are the type of players we need."
Analysis: The Rams defense is definitely a work in progress and one that shouldn't be trusted in Fantasy Football unless they play against a weak offense and can be used as a bye-week replacement. Do not consider them Week 1 vs. Denver.
8/29/2006
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Rams cut trio of defenders
News: The St. Louis Rams released DL Jeremy Calahan CB Kevin Timothee and LB Drew Wahlroos on Monday.
Analysis: The Rams will survive just fine without these three players, although they give up way too many points to consider as anything more than a No. 2 DST in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
8/27/2006
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DL Little plays at Kansas City
News: DL Little (quadriceps) was able to play in Saturday's preseason game at Kansas City. He recorded one solo tackle and assisted on another.
Analysis: Little recorded 9.5 sacks, 56 tackles (45 solo) and three passes defensed last season. Despite that solid presence, the Rams give up way too many points to consider as anything more than a No. 2 DST in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
8/11/2006
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Rams DE suffers knee injury
News: Rams starting DE Anthony Hargrove sprained his right knee in the first quarter of Thursday's preseason opener vs. Indianapolis. Head coach Scott Linehan said the injury was minor after the game.
Analysis: The Rams DST allowed a ton of points last season and will be worth no more than a late-round selection in most 2006 drafts.
8/5/2006
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Rookie DB shows his grit
News: Tye Hill showed he has grit to go with the talent that made him St. Louis' first-round draft pick. The rookie cornerback was down for a few minutes after aggravating a right shoulder sprain sustained at the combine when he collided with fullback Moe Williams on a pass pattern in Saturday's scrimmage. Far from shutting it down for the day, he was back in the mix just a few minutes later. "I've never questioned his toughness or his ability to get back out there, I was more happy that it wasn't anything more serious," coach Scott Linehan said. "He got back out there quick."
Analysis: Hill enters a crowded competition at cornerback, a weak spot on a 31st-ranked defense last year that has undergone a major upgrade. Both starters, Jerametruis Butler and Travis Fisher, have recovered from injuries that left them on injured reserve at the end of the season, and the Rams signed free-agent Fakhir Brown, who had four starts last year for the Saints. He should only be taken as a middle- to late-round pick in rookie-only dynasty league drafts, though he could develop into a good cornerback in a few years.
5/5/2006
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Hill could be top cover corner
News: StLouisRams.com reports CB Tye Hill could be the team's top cover cornerback as a rookie. "He's probably the best cover corner in the Draft," teammate WR Torry Holt said. "Obviously, his speed jumps out at you and his ability to cover. He's one of those guys that have a very infectious approach."
Analysis: Holt believes Hill has confidence in his skills as well. :He backs down to no one. That's what I look at in a corner," Holt said. "The guy has a little bit of; I don't know if it's arrogance, but more confidence about his abilities, but not over the top."
4/30/2006
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St. Louis drafts CB Tye Hill
News: The St. Louis Rams selected Clemson CB Tye Hill with the No. 15 overall selection in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Hill will come in and assist the Rams and their defense against the pass. He has little IDP value, however, and the Rams defense remains waiver-wire fodder.
3/13/2006
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Rams land Will Witherspoon
News: The Charlotte Observer reports Wil Witherspoon has agreed to terms on a six-year contract worth $33 million with the St. Louis Rams.
Analysis: Witherspoon recorded 2.5 sacks, two interceptions, one TD, 81 tackles (66 solo) and 12 passes defensed last season in Carolina.
3/8/2006
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St. Louis adds La'Roi Glover
News: The St. Louis Rams have signed DT La'Roi Glover, who was released by the Dallas Cowboys last week. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the new contract is worth around $12 million.
Analysis: Even with the addition of the All-Pro defensive lineman, the Rams DST will still warrant little attention in drafts.
3/3/2006
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Rams release Chris Claiborne
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams have released LB Chris Claiborne.
Analysis: Claiborne recorded 38 total tackles last season.
1/17/2006
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Rams DST records four TDs
News: The Rams DST recorded 13 interceptions, one safety, 41 sacks, 14 fumble recoveries, four TDs and allowed 429 points (26.8 PPG) this season.
Analysis: The Rams DST allowed a ton of points this season and will be worth no more than a late-round selection in most 2006 drafts.
12/24/2005
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Five sacks for Rams DST
News: The Rams defensive unit totaled five sacks vs. San Francisco in Week 16.
Analysis: Don't even think about using this group for the rest of the 2005 season.
12/18/2005
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Rams D plays amazing
News: The Rams DST notched four sacks, three interceptions and a fumble recovery vs. Philadelphia in Week 15.
Analysis: The Rams DST had a good game here, which is encouraging since they play vs. San Francisco in Week 16. Consider using them again if you have no other reliable DST options.
12/15/2005
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Little probable for Week 15
News: Leonard Little (knee) is probable for Week 15 vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not a recommended choice in most leagues.
12/12/2005
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Rams D still useless
News: The Rams DST forced a fumble at Minnesota in Week 14 but did nothing else to help their cause.
Analysis: Frankly speaking, this is the worst DST in the NFL today. Don't use them when they host the Eagles in Week 15.
News: Adam Archuleta (concussion) practiced Thursday and isn't on this week's injury report. He was a late scratch in Week 13.
Analysis: Barring setbacks, it appears Archuleta will start but the Rams DST is still not a recommended option at Minnesota.
12/8/2005
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Rams DST a little dinged
News: CB Terry Fair (neck), CB Travis Fisher (groin) and DT Brian Howard (concussion) are all listed as questionable for Week 14 at Minnesota. S Jerome Carter (foot), CB Dejuan Groce (hamstring), DE Tony Hargrove (hamstring) and DR Ryan Pickett (kee) are probable.
Analysis: The Rams DST is one of the league's more vulnerable units and has little value in most Fantasy Football leagues.
12/4/2005
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Rams DST allows 24 points
News: The Rams DST allowed 24 points and 407 total net yards in Week 13 against the Redskins. They also had just one sack, no interceptions and no fumble recoveries, but were credited with a team safety when QB Mark Brunell fumbled the ball out of the end zone. From the injury front, DB DeJuan Groce (concussion) was able to play and he had a pass defensed. CB Travis Fisher (groin) and S Adam Archuleta (concussion) were inactive.
Analysis: The Rams DST have been a disappointing Fantasy unit and they are not recommended against QB Brad Johnson and the resurgent Vikings in Week 14 in Minneapolis.
12/1/2005
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Adam Archuleta questionable
News: S Adam Archuleta (concussion) is listed as questionable for Week 13 against Washington. In other news, CB Travis Fisher (groin) is also questionable and CB Dejuan Groce (concussion) is probable.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not a recommended option in what could be shootout against the Redskins.
11/27/2005
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Rams D run over by Carr
News: The Rams gave up 27 points and 429 yards to the Houston Texans in Week 12. David Carr threw for 293 yards and three touchdowns against them.
Analysis: The Rams DST should never be used in Fantasy leagues, including in Week 13 vs. Washington.
11/20/2005
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Rams defense stumbles
News: The Rams DST allowed the Cardinals to score 38 points in their Week 11 game, registering a mere sack with a forced fumble.
Analysis: The Rams DST should never be used in Fantasy leagues, including in Week 12 at Houston.
11/14/2005
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Rams DST gives up 31
News: The Rams DST gave up 31 points to Seattle in Week 10. The unit failed to record a sack but did manage two interceptions.
Analysis: You could do better than the Rams DST in what should be a Week 11 shootout vs. Arizona.
10/30/2005
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Rams give up 400-plus yards
News: The Rams DST allowed 221 yards rushing and 206 yards passing against Jacksonville Sunday. They did score on a blocked punt, however, and they forced two turnovers.
Analysis: St. Louis is on a bye for Week 9 before traveling to Seattle in Week 10. The Rams defensive unit is not one to lean on in Fantasy play.
10/23/2005
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Surprise TD for STL DST
News: Rams safety Mike Furrey picked off an Aaron Brooks pass and ran it back 67 yards just inside of two minutes to play in the Rams' 28-17 win vs. New Orleans in Week 7. The normally porous Rams defense actually held the Saints to zero rushing TDs and only 230 passing yards. They added four sacks.
Analysis: St. Louis' DST unit just isn't good enough to start on a regular basis. Next week they play vs. Jacksonville in Week 8.
10/18/2005
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Rams DST drummed by the Colts
News: The St. Louis defense was torched for 45 points and 363 total net yards in Week 6 at Indianapolis. They were able to post two sacks.
Analysis: The Rams will look to regroup on defense in Week 7 when the lowly Saints visit St. Louis.
10/13/2005
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Rams to start ex-WR at safety
News: Safety Michael Hawthorne, who lost his starting job in last week's loss to the Seahawks, was released by the St. Louis Rams on Thursday. Hawthorne, signed to a free agent contract in the offseason, started the first five games at free safety. Mike Furrey replaced him in the second quarter of a 37-31 loss to Seattle and tied for the team lead with a career-high nine tackles, including seven solo stops.
Analysis: In recent weeks, Rams coaches have been critical of the lack of discipline at the safety position and Hawthorne was out of position on several plays last week. The overall defense has struggled, allowing 81 points the last two games. Furrey, a former Arena League player who began his career as a wide receiver and special teams player, will make his first career start Monday at Indianapolis. He moved to defense this season.
10/9/2005
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Rams DST allows 37 points
News: The Rams DST allowed 37 points with four sacks in Sunday's win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Analysis: This unit has little value in Fantasy Football.
10/2/2005
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Rams DST torched in Week 4
News: The Rams allowed 44 points and 456 total net yards in Week 4 at N.Y. Giants, as QB Eli Manning had his way with their secondary. They also posted only one sack, no interceptions or fumble recoveries.
Analysis: It was an all-around awful day for the Rams defensive unit, allowing 200-plus receiving yards and a pair of scores to WR Plaxico Burress. It is likely you received negative points in most scoring systems. The Rams should rebound against the Seahawks in Week 5, but might have trouble containing RB Shaun Alexander.
9/25/2005
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Rams D scores touchdown
News: The Rams DST scored a TD on an 85-yard interception return by Adam Archuleta vs. Tennessee in Week 3. They added two interceptions, two sacks, a forced fumble and a recovery. They did give up 27 points, though.
Analysis: St. Louis' DST should never be in an active Fantasy starting lineup.
9/11/2005
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Rams DST allows 28 points
News: The St. Louis DST allowed 28 points and 217 total net yards in Week 1 at San Francisco. The team also had two sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Rams defense will look to shut down the Cardinals in Week 2 at Arizona.
9/4/2005
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Rams acquire Chris Johnson
News: The Green Bay Packers have acquired LB Robert Thomas from the St. Louis Rams for CB Chris Johnson.
Analysis: The Rams DST has no value in drafts.
8/23/2005
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Archuleta moved back to SS
News: The Post-Dispatch reports the St. Louis Rams are moving Adam Archuleta back from free safety to strong safety.
Analysis: The Rams DST still has little value in drafts despite the move.
8/17/2005
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Rams CB Butler out for the year
News: StLouisRams.com reports CB Jerametrius Butler will have season-ending surgery on his right knee. He tore his PCL in his first practice July 28.
Analysis: The Rams secondary will suffer a little without Butler. They should not be drafted.
8/12/2005
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Rams CB Butler tears PCL
News: The Post-Dispatch reports Rams CB Jerametrius Butler has a torn PCL in his right knee and could have season-ending surgery to fix it. He may also wind up playing on it, which could actually strengthen it. "He's leaning toward playing right now," head coach Mike Martz said. "The doctors have told him he can -- he's just going to have to really rehab it. Or he can have surgery and repair it. So he's got a choice."
Analysis: Butler is the Rams' starting cornerback, so it hurts the team's DST value if he misses the 2005 season.
8/6/2005
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Rams sign DT Parella
News: Defensive tackle John Parella signed a one-year contract Saturday with the St. Louis Rams.
Analysis: This does not affect the Fantasy value of the Rams DST for this season. They are only worth using during bye weeks at this point.
8/3/2005
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Rams make switch at safety
News: The Post-Dispatch reports that Rams rookie Jerome Carter is assuming the starting strong safety spot in camp, replacing Adam Archuleta, who is moving to free safety. "For him as a rookie to come in and absorb and get lined up under pressure and do things right is substantial," Martz said of Carter. "Physically, we had a pretty good idea what his presence would be; we just had to verify it in camp. ... He obviously makes mistakes, but for a young player, he's pretty unusual in that regard."
Analysis: This should help the Rams in the future, but there could be some growing pains. The Rams remain only a bye-week replacement when the matchup is right.
4/2/2005
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Leonard Little escapes trouble
News: Leonard Little was found innocent of drunken driving charges on Friday in St. Louis.
Analysis: The Rams DST was a horrible Fantasy unit last season. They should be better, but likely not enough to make them anything more than bye-week replacements.
3/4/2005
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Rams ink LB Claiborne
News: The St. Louis Rams have signed Chris Claiborne to a three-year, $10.5 million contract.
Analysis: The team has now added Claiborne and former Cowboys LB Dexter Coakley to its revamped defense.
3/2/2005
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Rams ink LB Coakley
News: According to reports, the St. Louis Rams have reached a five-year, $14.5 million contract with Dexter Coakley. The deal also includes a $3 million signing bonus.
Analysis: Coakley is expected to start at weakside linebacker, so his tackle totals could increase with the Rams.
12/19/2004
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Rams D flamed by Cardinals
News: The St. Louis defense allowed 31 points and 402 total net yards in Week 15 at Arizona. LB Leonard Little was able to scoop up a fumble for a 61-yard touchdown for the team's only score of the day.
Analysis: If the Rams defense could not contain Josh McCown and the Cardinals, they certainly cannot be depended on in the Fantasy postseason against Donovan McNabb and the Eagles in Week 16.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Williams (shoulder) is out at least a few weeks.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not a recommended option in Week 15.
12/10/2004
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Jackson listed as probable
News: DL Tyoka Jackson (illness) practiced Friday and is listed as probable for Week 14.
Analysis: In other news, CB Jerametrius Butler (shoulder, knee) also practiced and is probable.
12/5/2004
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Rams DST stifle 49ers
News: The St. Louis DST allowed only six points and 160 total yards to the 49ers on Sunday. The DST unit also had one interception and four sacks.
Analysis: The Rams DST is a decent start at Carolina in Week 14 in 12-team leagues.
12/2/2004
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Rams defense injury update
News: S Adam Archuleta might be limited in practice on Thursday due to a back injury. He is only considered probable for Week 13 against the 49ers.
Analysis: In other news, CB Aeneas Williams aggravated a pinched nerve in his neck and shoulder on Monday at Green Bay and is awaiting MRI results. He is questionable and will likely be limited if he can go on Sunday. The Rams are still a solid Fantasy defense against the hapless 49ers.
11/21/2004
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Rams allow 37 points
News: The Rams DST allowed 37 points with one sack and one interception in Sunday's loss to Buffalo.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not a recommended unit for Week 12.
11/19/2004
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Fisher has broken jaw
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports CB Travis Fisher is playing with a broken jaw. "I was just making a tackle. It was kind of a freak injury," Fisher said. "I think I got kneed in the chin, but I don't know."
Analysis: In other news, LB Tommy Polley (hamstring) sat out of Thursday's workout but will practice Friday.
11/12/2004
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LB Polley misses practice
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Tommy Polley (hamstring) missed practice on Thursday.
Analysis: Polley is expected to start in Week 10, barring setbacks.
11/5/2004
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Jackson listed as probable
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch DE Tyoka Jackson (hamstring), LB Brandon Chillar (hamstring), KR Arlen Harris (hamstring), and LB Robert Thomas (ankle) are probable for Week 9.
Analysis: The Rams DST is worth starting in leagues with 12-plus teams.
11/4/2004
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LB Chillar practices
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports LB Brandon Chillar (hamstring) returned to practice Wednesday.
Analysis: In other news, DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot), LB Robert Thomas (ankle), KR Arlen Harris (hamstring), DE Tyoka Jackson and CB Travis Fisher (arm) practiced without limitations.
11/2/2004
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DT Kennedy might return
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Jimmy Kennedy (foot) might return in Week 9.
Analysis: In other news, Trev Faulk will take over as the team's starting middle linebacker.
10/24/2004
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Rams can't stop 'Phins
News: The St. Louis Rams allowed the Miami offense to post 31 points and bag their first win of the year in Week 7.
Analysis: St. Louis has very little value as a Fantasy D/ST. The Rams have a bye in Week 8 and host the Patriots in Week 9.
10/22/2004
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CB Fisher questionable
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports CB Travis Fisher (forearm) took part in team drills Thursday and is listed as questionable for Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot) is listed as doubtful. The Nov. 7 game vs. New England is a more likely forecast for his return to action.
10/21/2004
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CB Fisher upgraded
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports CB Travis Fisher (forearm) and DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot) have been upgraded for Week 7. Kennedy is now listed as doubtful, while Fisher is listed as questionable.
Analysis: In other news, DL Tyoka Jackson (hamstring) is listed as questionable and LBs Robert Thomas (ankle) and Trev Faulk (hamstring) are listed as probable.
10/19/2004
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DB Archuleta leads Rams D
News: DB Adam Archuleta scooped up a fumble and returned it 93 yards for a touchdown in Week 6 against the Buccaneers. The Rams defense allowed 332 total net yards and 21 points against a Tampa Bay offense whose leading touchdown scorer through Week 6 is DB Ronde Barber.
Analysis: The Rams defense is still a marginal Fantasy unit in most leagues unless your primary defense has a difficult matchup or bye week. St. Louis is worth using against the mistake-prone and winless Dolphins in Week 7 at Miami.
10/15/2004
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Fisher sees limited work
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports CB Travis Fisher, out since Aug. 23 with a broken right forearm, saw limited action in practice Thursday.
Analysis: In other news, DT Jimmy Kennedy, who broke his right foot in training camp, is continuing individual workouts.
10/14/2004
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DL Jackson doubtful
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports DL Tyoka Jackson (hamstring) is doubtful for Week 6.
Analysis: In other news, LB Trev Faulk (hamstring) is questionable. CB DeJuan Groce (shoulder) and S Aeneas Williams (neck) are probable.
10/13/2004
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DB Williams probable for Week 6
News: DB Aeneas Williams (shoulder) is probable for Week 6 against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: The Rams defensive unit is a solid play against Brian Griese and the Buccaneers on Monday night.
10/11/2004
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DB Aeneas Williams pinches nerve
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Williams (shoulder) will get an MRI exam on his pinched nerve Monday. "So we'll find out, but I think I'll be fine," he said. DL Tyoka Jackson also left Sunday's game at Seattle with a strained hamstring. His status is uncertain.
Analysis: The Rams DST is not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
10/10/2004
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Rams lose two players to injury
News: DB Aeneas Williams was forced to leave Week 5 at Seattle due to a pinched nerve in his neck. The team also lost DT Tyoka Jackson due to a strained hamstring.
Analysis: DB Adam Archuleta (back) was able to play. He had six solo tackles in the game. The Rams defense is seriously banged up, but should be healthy enough to produce solid numbers in Week 6 against Tampa Bay.
10/8/2004
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DB Rich Coady to start
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Rich Coady will make his third start in a row in Week 5 at Seattle. He'll replace Adam Archuleta, who is limited by a sore back.
Analysis: In other news, CB DeJuan Groce (knee) is expected to start. LB Pisa Pisa Tinoisamoa (elbow) is listed as probable.
10/7/2004
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CB Groce practices
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports CB DeJuan Groce (knee) returned to practice Wednesday and worked with the first unit.
Analysis: In other news, KR Arlen Harris (hamstring) is expected to return to full duty this week. LB Robert Thomas (ankle) is listed as probable.
10/6/2004
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DB Archuleta to play
News: According to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Adam Archuleta (back, hamstring) did not start against the 49ers, but played in the nickel defense. He could see a limited role in Week 5.
Analysis: In other news, CB DeJuan Groce (knee) did not play against the 49ers and is questionable. CB Travis Fisher (forearm) will not play.
10/5/2004
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Leonard Little plays all over
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Little played linebacker as well as his natural defensive end position at San Francisco Sunday.
Analysis: Little helped the Rams DST with six tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery. Consider using this unit as a bye-week replacement.
10/4/2004
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Leonard Little plays all over
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Little played linebacker as well as his natural defensive end position at San Francisco Sunday.
Analysis: Little helped the Rams DST with six tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery. Consider using this unit as a bye-week replacement.
10/1/2004
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DB Adam Archuleta probable
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Archuleta (hamstring) is probable for Week 4.
Analysis: The Rams DST warrants consideration in leagues with 12-plus teams.
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the return of CB DeJuan Groce (knee) means Aeneas Williams is heading back to free safety for Week 4. LB Robert Thomas (ankle) is probable, and LB Tony Newson (ankle) is questionable.
Analysis: In other news, DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot) was in North Carolina on Wednesday for an examination. "We should have a pretty good idea of how far away he is.," coach Mike Martz said. "I'm excited about the thought of getting him back and the role we could use him in."
9/26/2004
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Rams allow 28 points
News: The Rams DST allowed 28 points in Sunday's overtime loss to New Orleans. The unit also posted two sacks and was held without an interception or forced fumble.
Analysis: The Rams DST is only worth starting in leagues with 12-plus teams.
9/24/2004
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LB Chillar sits out
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, LB Brandon Chillar (foot) sat out team drills Thursday. X-rays showed no broken bones, however, and the injury was diagnosed as a bruise.
Analysis: Chillar was listed on Thursday's injury report as probable for Week 3.
9/19/2004
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Vick runs by Rams
News: Michael Vick rushed for 109 yards in Week 2 against the Rams defense. Atlanta won the game by the score of 34-17.
Analysis: The St. Louis Rams play at home against the New Orleans Saints in Week 3. They should be considered as a starter in larger leagues.
9/15/2004
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DB Archuleta probable
News: According to reports, Archuleta (back spasms) is probable for Week 2.
Analysis: In other news, LB Tommy Polley (ribs) and DB Pisa Tinoisamoa (shoulder) are also listed as probable.
9/14/2004
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LB Pisa Tinoisamoa OK
News: According to reports, Tinoisamoa (dislocated shoulder) is expected to play in Week 2.
Analysis: X-rays on his shoulder were negative and he finished the team's Week 1 game wearing a shoulder harness.
9/13/2004
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Tinoisamoa sidelined for a while
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Pisa Tinoisamoa suffered a dislocated shoulder in the first half of Sunday's game against Arizona. "He played the rest of the game in a harness strap, whatever you call it," said head coach Mike Martz. "I would imagine we won't have him for a little while. They're going to MRI him and see if there's any damage in there."
Analysis: Tinoisamoa is backed up by Tommy Polley at the outside linebacker position. Tinoisamoa was the team's leading tackler a season ago in his rookie effort. They are still worth considering as a No. 1 Fantasy defense in Week 2 vs. Atlanta.
9/12/2004
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Rams stifle Cards
News: The St. Louis Rams held the Cardinals to just 10 points in Week 1.
Analysis: Not a huge test for St. Louis. The Rams are a solid Fantasy defense and should be active in Week 2 when they face Atlanta.
9/9/2004
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DB Bronson out for the year
News: DB Zack Bronson will require season-ending surgery for his ankle injury and has been placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Bronson was signed for depth in the secondary. His loss will not affect the overall Fantasy appeal of the St. Louis defense.
9/9/2004
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DB Zach Bronson out
News: According to reports, Bronson (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 1.
Analysis: Despite his absence, the Rams DST remains a solid starting option.
9/8/2004
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DB Sehorn fails physical
News: According to reports, Sehorn has failed a physical and will not join the St. Louis Rams.
Analysis: The Rams defense is a good starting option in Week 1 against Arizona.
9/7/2004
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Rams add Bronson
News: The Rams signed safety Zack Bronson who was released by the San Francisco 49ers in June. "He's a veteran that's played at a high level for a long time and I'm excited about having him," coach Mike Martz said. The team released seven defensive players: Defensive tackle Bernard Holsey, defensive end Sean Moran, defensive lineman Kevin Aldridge, cornerback Dwight Anderson, safeties Nijrell Eason and Justin Lucas and linebacker Brandon Spoon. St. Louis also placed defensive back Tom Knight (finger/hamstring) on injured reserve.
Analysis: Bronson will add some nice depth to the safety position for St. Louis, joining Aeneas Williams, Adam Archuleta, Rich Coady, and rookie Jason Shivers. St. Louis should be used in all Fantasy formats.
8/25/2004
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Polley, Jackson injured
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports LB Tommy Polley (rotator cuff) and DE Tyoka Jackson (shoulder) have muscle strains and are listed as day to day.
Analysis: Coach Mike Martz indicated that Polley could be sidelined a week or two, but further evaluation showed that the injury is not that bad.
8/24/2004
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CB Fisher out for the season
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Travis Fisher (arm) is expected to miss the entire season. "He's probably out for the year," Rams coach Mike Martz said. "It's a three- to four-month deal, so to plan on having him back for any part of the season after 16 weeks ..."
Analysis: Aeneas Williams is expected to move back to the cornerback position to replace Fisher.
8/23/2004
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CB Fisher breaks right arm
News: CB Travis Fisher suffered a broken right arm in Monday's preseason game at Kansas City.
Analysis: It is unclear whether Fisher will require season-ending surgery or not. Kevin Garnett might be counted on to fill in during his absence.
8/23/2004
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Little returns to practice
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Leonard Little (personal) returned to practice Saturday.
Analysis: Despite his off-field troubles, Little is still a vital part of the Rams defense.
12/10/2003
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Rams lose LB Thomas
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Robert Thomas has a torn groin and could be sidelined up to a month. Jamie Duncan will step in to start at MLB.
Analysis: The Rams' defense could become more vulnerable to the run without Thomas. St. Louis might surrender a lot of points in a shootout with Seattle on Sunday.
11/30/2003
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Rams batter Vikings QB in win
News: DE Leonard Little (four) led a seven-sack attack in a victory over Minnesota.
Analysis: The Rams should have another good defensive outing when they host the Browns in Week 14.
11/18/2003
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Little likely out again
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Leonard Little (torn pectoral muscle) will probably be held out for the fourth consecutive week Sunday at Arizona. He will likely be kept out for precautionary reasons.
Analysis: The Rams' sack leader will be missed, as the pass rush is less effective without him.
10/19/2003
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Archuleta, Sehorn inactive
News: Adam Archuleta (ankle) and Jason Sehorn (foot) were inactive in Week 7.
Analysis: Their status for Week 8 is uncertain.
10/18/2003
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Archuleta improves
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Adam Archuleta (ankle) jogged on a treadmill Friday and could play Sunday against Green Bay.
Analysis: When healthy, Archuleta makes the Rams secondary one of the toughest in the NFL.
8/5/2003
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Wistrom returns to limited work
News: According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Grant Wistrom (feet) returned to practice on a limited basis Monday. Barring any setbacks, Wistrom's workload gradually will increase throughout the preseason. "They're just easing me back into it, which is the right thing to do," he said. Coach Mike Martz said Wistrom has an outside chance of playing in Friday's preseason game at Oakland.
Analysis: Wistrom can be a useful player in leagues that use individual defensive players, but he needs to regain full health before warranting consideration on Draft Day. His return will also make the Rams defense more appealing.
7/27/2003
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FS Jason Sehorn breaks foot
News: Sehorn suffered a broken left foot in Sunday's practice and is expected to be sidelined until at least October.
Analysis: Sehorn's injury means Kim Herring will start at free safety. His loss does not significantly decrease the value of the Rams' defensive unit from a Fantasy perspective.
7/24/2003
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Rams DE is sidelined
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Grant Wistrom has plantar fasciitis in both feet. He hasn't run in about a month, but he might be able to practice by next week.
Analysis: A healthy Wistrom is necessary if the St. Louis defense hopes to improve this season. The Rams have a youthful defensive unit that might not be reliable in Fantasy leagues.
6/24/2003
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Sehorn and Herring to compete
News: Jason Sehorn and Kim Herring will compete during training camp to be the team's starting free safety.
Analysis: Herring is the incumbent and has the edge over Sehorn, who is moving from his natural cornerback position.
