Quarterback: Ups and downs for Bradford
At times during training camp and the preseason Sam Bradford looks like he's ready for anything the NFL has to offer. He has flashed arm strength, accuracy, and enough mobility to avoid the rush. His teammates like his command of the huddle and see his potential for leadership. The fact that he hasn't been a diva, and has respected the process, has been duly noted by his teammates. But there are also times when Bradford has struggled to complete passes, botched snaps under center, and looks frustrated. It may be that kind of season for the No. 1 overall draft pick, plenty of ups and downs, highs and lows. A.J. Feeley lacks Bradford's accuracy, and isn't as quick with the ball. But his drive against Cleveland was impressive and his relationship with Bradford seems good. Keith Null looks like he has a wrap on the No. 3 job.
Running back: Backup needed for Jackson
Steven Jackson's early work on the practice field and in the preseason has been impressive. There's no doubt it's a different Rams team, and a more confident offense, with him in the backfield. Jackson is a hard worker, and hasn't seemed to let the team's struggles in the won-loss column affect his play. Jackson basically doubled his weight training regimen in the summer following April surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back. The idea was to strengthen the muscles around the back. So far, so good. But there's simply no way to know if Jackson's back — or the rest of his body for that matter — will hold up over the course of a 16-game season. All the more reason to have a solid No. 2 running back. You get the feeling the No. 2 back isn't on the roster yet, meaning it won't be Chris Ogbonnaya, Kenneth Darby, or Keith Toston.
Fullback/TE: Karney can still plow the road
Mike Karney isn't quite what he used to be in his heyday with the New Orleans Saints. After all, there's only so many hits in the body of a lead blocking fullback. But Karney still gets after it, and has developed a good rapport with Jackson. If Karney stays healthy, he is still capable of plowing the road for Jackson, although he has limited value as a pass catcher or ball carrier. The tight end position remains murky. Daniel Fells and Billy Bajema still look like the top two tight ends. Fells flashes potential but has had an up-and-down camp. Consistency is the key for him, whether it be blocking, minimizing dropped passes, or staying healthy and on the field. Bajema is a solid blocker with decent hands who could be used more in the passing game this season. Rookies Michael Hoomanawanui and Fendi Onobun are battling for roster spots.
Wide receiver: Avery injury is a big blow
The Rams lost their top deep threat when Donnie Avery injured his knee in the third preseason game. Avery had been having a quiet camp, as was fellow starter Laurent Robinson. The need for Robinson to get consistent separation from defenders is now an even bigger area of concern. Danny Amendola continues to have the best camp and preseason of any wide receiver, and figures to contribute even more with Avery out. A wrist injury has slowed fourth-round draft pick Mardy Gilyard, costing the rookie from Cincinnati some valuable practice time, and perhaps contributing to some drops. But there's no doubt that Gilyard will make the final roster; how much he contributes this season remains to be seen. The final one or two roster spots here are up for grabs. Despite his 34 catches last season, Brandon Gibson has been slowed by a hamstring injury.
Offensive line: Young tackles taking over
Looks like the Rams will sink or swim with a pair of very young tackles — second-year man Jason Smith on the right side and rookie Rodger Saffold at left tackle. Smith was set back by a fractured toe suffered in early June, missing valuable practice reps. A strong, aggressive run blocker, Smith needs to stay healthy and improve his pass blocking. Saffold is more athletic than Smith in terms of footwork and lateral movement, which may explain why he's playing left tackle instead of Smith. Injuries have hindered continuity and affected depth at the interior line positions. Mark Setterstorm is out for the year with a triceps injury. John Greco has missed most of camp with a chest muscle injury. Jacob Bell will start at left guard, Adam Goldberg at right guard, and Jason Brown at center. Veteran center/guard Hank Fraley will be the first interior lineman off the bench.
