Sunday, August 24 2008 -- In 2007, the St. Louis Rams (3-13) ended up tied for second in what was a weak NFC West. After five years of decline, the Rams, who utilized the draft to improve the club, will finally be in the mix again.

Offense

QB Mark Bulger (378 ATT, 221 COMP, 2,392 YDS, 11 TDs, 15 INT) had his performance compromised last season by injuries. Bulger, who has been sacked 153 times in seven years, needs some protection. He should get it this year with a reconstituted and healthy offensive line. With three consecutive 1,000-plus yard seasons, RB Steven Jackson (237 ATT, 1,002 YDS, 4.2 AVG, 5 TDs) will keep the ground attack focused. WR Torry Holt (93 REC, 1,189 YDS, 12.8 AVG, 7 TDs) is an elite player and the anchor of the pass catching unit.

Defense

The weak Ram defense, which was 31st overall, is bolstered by new additions, including second overall 2008 draft pick DE Chris Long and second-round pick tackle John Greco. Will Witherspoon (110 tackles, 7 sacks) is the anchor of the linebacking unit. He's a premium player. The secondary will be good if corner Tye Hill is healthy. Safety O.J. Atogwe (8 INT, 2 FF) was a Pro Bowler last season.

Special Teams

The Rams welcome placekicker Josh Brown, formerly of Seattle. Brown is one of the best young legs around. Punter Donnie Jones is strong and accurate. Coverage squads are weak and the return units need someone to step up and be the breakout threat.

Overview

Al Saunders is the team's new offensive coordinator. His job is to make the scoring unit more consistent and potent. Head coach Scott Linehan is a conservative coach, but he will sometimes take a risk and surprise opponents. The Rams will be contenders this season.