St. Louis Rams Closing Evaluations: What Grades Do the Defensive Linemen Receive?

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Eugene Sims: With a bigger opportunity to contribute opened up by Chris Long’s injury, Eugene Sims had the most productive season of his career in 2014. Over a career-high 504 snaps from scrimmage—roughly 100 more than his previous high—Sims matched his career high with three sacks and had a career-high 28 tackles. He also had 18 quarterback hurries.

Frankly, Sims should have exceeded his previous bests more than he did considering his large increase in playing time. He didn’t do much to prove that he’s worthy of a full-time starting role, but he contributed enough to show that he’s a good rotational player who will add some good pass rushing skills over a limited number of snaps, which is basically what he had done over the past two seasons. We’ll see if Sims’ 2014 showing is enough for the Rams to promote him to the number 3 end role next year and send William Hayes packing.

GRADE: C+

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