This is true. His physicality will be missed. But it still comes down to the fact if the Rams hit on a corner and restack the safeties they can improve the defense and have a respectable unit vice a unit that lets QBs do whatever the F they want.
I'm not sure what to expect in the draft at CB and Safety, but I no longer feel they'll near the top of our board for acquisition. What the Rams do need is a pass rush which can take some of the pressure off our young DB's, so I'm still all in on trading for Brian Burns or another elite level Edge.
Snead mentioned an emphasis on offensive improvements as what might be more in store for us, so I suspect the OL, TE, RB & WR positions to see some real intensive activity, maybe even a QB. Keeping Stafford upright should be goal #1. Re-sign Gaines, get us a proper Edge (1 by trade and 1 from later in the draft) and we should be able to present a decent gameplan.
jmo.