PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 15

ST. LOUIS RAMS

The latter days of the Mike Martz era and the first year of the Scott Linehan regime placed a cloud of uncertainty over a franchise that was arguably one of the most potent teams to win only one Super Bowl.

But the fog is lifting, and it's revealing a franchise that could contend -- as soon as this year -- for a spot in the postseason, and maybe more.

On paper, these Rams look as good, if not even better, than the roster that won Super Bowl XXXIV.  Marc Bulger is one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and finally is getting paid like it.  Steven Jackson has become a stellar running back.  Torry Holt is still an elite receiver.  Randy McMichael could become a top-shelf tight end.  And Orlando Pace is still anchoring the left side of the line.

Defensively, the Rams are looking solid.  First-round draft pick Adam Carriker appears poised to make a huge impact in the middle of the line, which will make everyone beside and behind him look better.  Defensive end James Hall had some flashes of greatness in Detroit, and the possible acquisition of Simeon Rice could be a huge difference.

So don't overlook the Rams, folks.  At a time when everyone is talking about the 49ers as a potential sleeper team in the NFC, we think that the Rams could pull the same kind of surprise that they unleashed on the league eight years ago.

Key departures:  WR Kevin Curtis, WR Shaun McDonald, CB Travis Fisher.

Key arrivals:  WR Drew Bennett, TE Randy McMichael, DE James Hall, LB Chris Draft.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  DT Adam Carriker.

Coach's current job security:  Two years.