Rams minicamp kicks off today, June 12-14, and it marks the beginning of what will be a very important 2008 for the Rams. They need to rebound from a disastrous year, a year in which they went 3-13, basement dwellers in the NFC West. The team needs to develop an identity, which should help with the addition of 2nd overall pick, DE Chris Long.
Since the days of the Greatest Show on Turf, the Rams haven’t really had a true identity. However with the addition of Long, whose high character, hard working, and blue collar personality joins the team, the Rams have an opportunity to establish a new identity.
So as minicamp is underway, the number one thing the Rams have to do, to be competitive for the upcoming season is to integrate Long and the rest of their draft picks into their system as quickly as possible. With no big moves in free agency, this years draft class has to come in and make a noticeable contribute to the team.
Second round pick WR Donnie Avery has to bring the speed he was drafted for to keep defenses honest and off doubling Torry Holt. Long has to solidify the d-line and add some excitement and playmaking to the defense. Guards Roy Schuening and John Greco have to contribute to the o-line, add depth, and step up to play if need be.
But probably the number one most important thing for this Rams team to be successful in conjunction with the draft class is for the team to be healthy.
Last year was lost when offensive tackle Orlando Pace got hurt early last season. When Pace went down, so did the Rams year. So therefore it is imperative for everyone that is in camp to work hard, stay healthy and have fun. Because for the Rams to be successful in 08′ these three factors must come together for them to make a run in the NFC.
