Rams appear set with pass catchers, but that doesn’t mean they won’t draft another
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As the Rams prepare for the NFL draft, The Times will examine their roster. Part 1 of 8: Receivers and tight ends.
The Rams’ passing attack featured two dynamic staples the last four seasons — Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. Both are smart, sure-handed and particularly adept at gaining yardage after the catch. Both earned large extensions last fall.
But in 2020, the Rams lacked a deep threat, a speedy player who could run longer routes, stretch the defense and create more opportunities for Woods and Kupp.
In March, the Rams signed DeSean Jackson to fill that role. During his 13-year NFL career, Jackson, 34, established himself as one of the league’s elite playmakers, especially on longer routes. He has averaged 17.4 yards per catch. Eight times, he has finished a season with receptions that covered 80 yards or more.
The Rams’ longest pass last season covered only 56 yards — a touchdown from quarterback Jared Goff to Woods.
DeSean Jackson had some of his most productive NFL seasons when he played under coach Sean McVay in Washington, and aims to repeat success with Rams.
Jackson was sidelined or slowed by injuries the last two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and played in only eight games. But Jackson, a Los Angeles native, is eager to be reunited with coach Sean McVay, Washington’s offensive coordinator when Jackson played there in 2014-2016.
“To be back home is a great addition for my family and for where I’m at in my career,” Jackson told reporters last month.
Last season, Woods caught 90 passes for 926 yards and six touchdowns. Kupp caught 92 passes for 974 yards and three touchdowns, but was forced to sit out an NFC divisional-round playoff game because of knee bursitis.
Van Jefferson, a second-round draft pick in 2020, caught 19 passes for 220 yards and a touchdown.
Tight end Tyler Higbee is entering his sixth season and, after breaking out with four 100-yard receiving games in 2019, his production waned last season (44 catches, 521 yards, five touchdowns).
Matthew Stafford might not have the glitz and glam of Hollywood, but the strong-armed quarterback is just what the Rams need to get to a Super Bowl.
Under contract for 2021: Woods ($5.9 million), Kupp ($5.3 million), Jackson ($3.3 million), Jefferson ($1.3 million), Nsimba Webster ($850,000), Trishton Jackson ($784,000), J.J. Koski ($660,000).
Free agents: The Rams signed Jackson to a one-year contract that could be worth as much as $4.5 million. The departures of Josh Reynolds (52 catches), who signed with the Tennessee Titans, and tight end Gerald Everett, who signed with the Seattle Seahawks, were expected.
Draft: The addition of Jackson won’t preclude the Rams from possibly drafting a speedy receiver who could supplant Jackson if the veteran’s recent injury woes continue.
Roster decisions: The top four receiver slots and three tight end spots appear set.
NEXT: Defensive backs.
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