2012-2016- The Fisher Era

The L.A. Rams’ top 5 most indispensable players

Every team in the NFL have a key group of players that are vital to the success of the team. In the case of the Los Angeles Rams, there are five specific players that the Rams absolutely cannot lose. The only rule to this list is one player per position.

5. P Johnny Hekker

Did I really just place a punter on this list? Without any hesitation. People joke about the Rams’ MVP being Hekker, and it’s not so much a joke as it is a reality, well almost. While many fans would rather one of these prestigious spots go to another position, the punter’s role shouldn’t be undervalued. Hekker is consistent, keeps the Rams in games by creating excellent field position for the defense and can be a threat on fake punt attempts if used properly. Last season, he led the league in every major category for punter, and he is having another remarkable season. Thus far, he has registered 50 punts and averaged 46.6 yards per punt, which also includes the booming 78-yard kick launched against the New York Jets.

4. CB Trumaine Johnson

Johnson missed a couple games this season due to injury, and his presence was felt in each game he sat on the bench. One player missing in the secondary shouldn’t have that dramatic of an impact, but due to depth issues, losing Johnson is one of the worst things to happen to the Rams defense. Teams usually avoid passing the ball on Johnson’s side of the field, but he still leads the team in pass deflections with nine. That’s how effective Johnson has been for the Rams.

3. LB Alec Ogletree

Considering that Ogletree is one of the few true linebackers on the roster, I don’t really need to clarify how indispensable he is to the Rams, but I will anyways. Ogletree is a tackling machine with a nose for the football and improved coverage skills. On top of all that, he has shown that he is a capable leader, and one of the key players overall on the Rams roster. Through nine games this season, he has earned 60 tackles, seven pass deflections, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception.

2. WR Kenny Britt

If Britt remains healthy and consistent, he is certainly a candidate for the Pro Bowl, but an argument can be made for Comeback Player of the Year too. Undoubtedly, Britt has been the most consistent player on offense, and has truly improved overall as a player. He picks up blocks, fights for yards after the catch and attacks the football. If that’s not convincing enough, the stats will certainly persuade you. In nine games, he’s recorded 44 receptions for 693 yards and three touchdowns. He is well on his way to surpassing his career highs, and has a good shot at shattering the 1,000-yard barrier.

1. DT Aaron Donald

Is this a shock? Not really. Donald isn’t just the Rams’ best defensive linemen, or just the best defensive linemen in the NFL, he is arguably the top defensive player in the NFL. His strength, technique and pursuit are just plain scary, and make him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL. Some experts have argued that Donald benefits from the likes of Robert Quinn and Michael Brockers being on the same defensive line, but he remained consistent despite injuries hitting the Rams hard this season. Stats have never represented defensive tackles well, but Donald has five sacks and 24 tackles, which is great for nine games. Of course, these stats don’t say how many times Donald made quarterbacks run for their lives.

Source: Pro-football-reference.com

You can follow Johnny Gomez on Twitter @Johnny5not6. Be sure to follow Rams Talk on Twitter @TalkRams.

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