Rams Still Looking For Help At Defensive Tackle, Other Roster Spots

The preseason is over, and the dirty work of trimming down the roster happens Friday. Teams are required to get from 75 to 53 players on the roster by 8 p.m. CT. While cuts are the first part of the equation, there will be plenty of new players added to the mix. St. Louis Rams general manager Les Snead said Thursday night that his team is prepared to make some more moves to shape their final roster.

Snead told the broadcasters during Thursday's preseason finale that the staff at Rams Park has done its homework ahead of cut-down day. They have a board, just like a draft board, with players projected to be cut that are on the Rams' radar.

One position on their mind is defensive tackle. The injury to Michael Brockers is not believed to be serious, but he could miss some time. Even before the uncalled chop block that took out the rookie's ankle happened, defensive tackle was a target for the Rams who are thin at the position behind their two starters. Right now, the most likely third and fourth tackles on the roster are UDFA Matt Conrath and Jermelle Cudjo.

Conrath was injured in Thursday's game, and his status is unknown. Look for a player with more experience to be a target.

Another area that could use some help is safety. The Rams' safeties have struggled through the preseason, though played much better last night. I would not be surprised to see them target someone with some experience in a cover-2 and a little more work at free safety.

The offensive line looks to be set, but you have to think they will have a close eye on players getting released that could improve the depth at offensive tackle.

Jo-Lonn Dunbar and Mario Haggan apparently have the starting outside linebacker jobs sewn up for the start of the season, with Rocky McIntosh sort of a 1c in that mix. Beyond those three, the Rams lack much experience at outside linebacker.