E.J. Gaines

Gaines was limited to just 11 games (10 starts) in 2016, as he dealt with quadriceps, thigh, chest and quad injuries during the season. It's a concerning trend after he missed all of 2015 with a Lisfranc foot injury. Despite missing five games, Gaines was still able to rack up 56 tackles (47 solo) and seven passes defended last year, so there was modest fantasy production when he was on the field. However, he struggled mightily in the real game and isn't a lock to remain entrenched in a starting role considering there's a new coaching regime in charge. With that said, opposing offenses may choose to look his way more often than opposite cornerback Trumaine Johnson, which should enable Gaines to post target-worthy tackle totals. It's probably best to see how things play out early in the season before turning to Gaines in most settings, though.

Though Gaines started 15 games as a rookie in 2014, he took a backseat to both Trumaine Johnson and Janoris Jenkins in 2015. Jenkins bolted for the Giants during the offseason, though, but it appears Lamarcus Joyner has the edge at replacing him in the starting lineup. If that situation holds, Gaines will be utilized as a depth option in the Rams' secondary in 2016.

Due to an injury to Trumaine Johnson, the likely starter heading into 2014, Gaines took hold of the starting cornerback spot and never let go. The rookie tallied 70 tackles, two picks and two fumble recoveries, but a Lisfranc foot injury will keep him out the entire 2015 season.

Gaines picked off five passes and was part of a ferocious Missouri defense in 2013 before being picked in the sixth round. The defensive backfield was the Rams' weakness in 2013, and St. Louis is hoping Gaines can be one of their cornerbacks of the future.