2018 Los Angeles Rams Roster: A Comprehensive Guide to the NFL's Contenders

Introduction

The 2018 Los Angeles Rams roster boasts an impressive lineup of talented players, poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season. With a potent offense and a formidable defense, the Rams are considered one of the top contenders for the Super Bowl.

Offense

Quarterback

Jared Goff (6'4", 228 lbs.) is the Rams' starting quarterback, entering his fourth season in the NFL. In 2017, Goff passed for 3,804 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, leading the Rams to an NFC West Division title.

Running Backs

Todd Gurley (6'1", 227 lbs.) is one of the NFL's most explosive running backs. In 2017, Gurley rushed for 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was named the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year.

Wide Receivers

The Rams have a deep and talented wide receiver corps. Robert Woods (6'0", 205 lbs.) is the team's leading receiver, coming off a 72-catch, 865-yard season. Cooper Kupp (6'2", 208 lbs.) is a rising star, who caught 62 passes for 869 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2017.

Tight End

Tyler Higbee (6'4", 245 lbs.) is the Rams' starting tight end. He is a reliable target for Goff, with 24 catches for 308 yards and 2 touchdowns in 2017.

Defense

Defensive Line

Aaron Donald (6'1", 280 lbs.) is one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the NFL. In 2017, Donald had 11 sacks and 8 forced fumbles, earning him the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year award.

Linebackers

Cory Littleton (6'3", 228 lbs.) is the Rams' leading tackler, with 134 tackles in 2017. Mark Barron (6'1", 220 lbs.) is a versatile linebacker, who had 83 tackles and 3 interceptions in 2017.

Cornerbacks

Marcus Peters (6'0", 195 lbs.) is the Rams' top cornerback, coming off a 19-interception season with the Kansas City Chiefs. Aqib Talib (6'1", 202 lbs.) is a veteran cornerback, who had 3 interceptions in 2017.

Safety

John Johnson III (6'0", 204 lbs.) is the Rams' starting strong safety. He had 66 tackles and 3 interceptions in 2017. Lamarcus Joyner (5'8", 194 lbs.) is the team's free safety, with 53 tackles and 3 interceptions in 2017.

Key Additions

The Rams made several key additions to their roster during the offseason:

• Marcus Peters (CB): Traded from the Kansas City Chiefs, Peters is a Pro Bowl cornerback and one of the NFL's best playmakers.
• Aqib Talib (CB): Signed as a free agent from the Denver Broncos, Talib is a veteran cornerback with three Pro Bowl selections.
• Sam Shields (CB): Signed as a free agent from the Chicago Bears, Shields is a former Pro Bowl cornerback who has experience in Wade Phillips' defensive system.

Key Departures

The Rams also lost some key players during the offseason:

• Trumaine Johnson (CB): Released, Johnson was the Rams' top cornerback in 2017.
• Robert Quinn (DE): Traded to the Miami Dolphins, Quinn was a three-time Pro Bowl selection with the Rams.
• Alec Ogletree (LB): Traded to the New York Giants, Ogletree was the Rams' leading tackler in 2015 and 2016.

Strength of Schedule

The Rams have a relatively tough schedule in 2018, with games against the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys. However, they also have some favorable matchups, including games against the Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, and Oakland Raiders.

Predictions

According to ESPN, the Rams are predicted to finish the 2018 regular season with a 9-7 record. This would be a one-game improvement from their 8-8 record in 2017. However, the Rams are considered to be a playoff contender, with a strong chance of reaching the NFC Championship Game.

Conclusion

The 2018 Los Angeles Rams roster is a blend of talented veterans and promising young players. With a potent offense and a formidable defense, the Rams are poised to make a deep playoff run in 2018.

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