Michael Brockers was the longest-tenured position player on the Rams’ roster. He was also the first one to leave the team this offseason when the legal tampering period opened.
On Monday, he agreed to a three-year deal worth $30 million with the Baltimore Ravens, joining their stout defensive line after eight years with the Rams. he’s not a stat-stuffer or someone fans will rave about, but Brockers was an important piece up front.
Replacing him won’t be easy, either.
His backup, Morgan Fox, is currently a restricted free agent, and while he could potentially return to the Rams and start, he hasn’t yet received an RFA tender. Sebastian Joseph-Day could potentially move from nose tackle to defensive end, opening the door for Greg Gaines to man the middle, but that’s probably not the best option.
There aren’t a ton of good options in free agency, but Derek Wolfe and Shelby Harris are still out there. The same goes for Mike Daniels and Brandon Mebane. But it’s now gotten to the point where the Rams probably won’t be replacing Brockers with a free agent who will step in and start right away.
Instead, Brockers’ spot will probably be taken by either Fox, Joseph-Day or a rookie. There are a number of good options in the draft, fortunately, even in the second and third rounds.
Justin Madabuike out of Texas A&M is a stud and should certainly be on the Rams’ radar. Raekwon Davis is a polarizing prospect, but fits the mold of what the Rams are looking for at defensive end. Rashard Lawrence, James Lynch, Ross Blacklock and Marlon Davidson are also names to watch.
It’ll be hard for any of those guys to come in and replicate Brockers’ play, especially against the run. Brockers was an elite run defender who admittedly didn’t offer much as a pass rusher, but his length and size at defensive end was valuable to the Rams.
Defensive end may not be a crucial position in a 3-4 scheme, given the importance of the outside linebackers and Aaron Donald’s role, but the Rams will need to find a quality replacement this offseason.
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