Jake Long injury: Rams tackle should be ready by May

The St. Louis Rams were satisfied with Jake Long medically, after running him through an endless array of MRIs and a physicals prior to his signing. However, Long is still recovering from the torn triceps that ended his 2012 season, and he will not be able to join the Rams on the field until the middle part of OTAs in May, according to Jim Thomas of the Post-Dispatch.

Put whatever spin you want onto that news. Long is a veteran left tackle with a few Pro Bowls on his resume. He knows what his job is. If he can't be a full participant in spring OTAs, when players are not wearing pads, it isn't really the end of the world.

On the other hand, Long's recovery is worth monitoring. The Rams have three offensive linemen who may not be ready for spring practices, including Scott Wells and Harvey Dahl. Three veteran linemen all recovering from injuries. It really isn't that big of a deal, for now, but for Rams fans scared by seeing a never-ending rash of offensive linemen hit the shelf with various, random maladies, it is nevertheless a little concerning.

It's also a reminder of just how important offensive line depth will be for this team going forward.