He was one of my favorite WR in the 2020 Draft and someone I really wanted them to take in the late 2nd/early 3rd rounds. Rarely does that actually happen so I was excited when they did pick him. Son of a coach (and
good former WR himself) and seemed like a great fit for their scheme and still is.
Like most WR he didn't do a whole lot as a rookie- 19 catches (plus 6 in the postseason) as he was behind Kupp, Woods and Reynolds as their WR4. But in 2021 he was a big contributor on offense. He finished as the 52nd ranked WR by FootballOutsiders and similarly by PFF. In essence, a high end WR3 or low end WR2. And that's what I think he is now.
Van Jefferson is never going to carry an offense or be someone defenses need to shade a 2nd DB to, etc. But like a lot of things with the Rams' offense, with more continuity in place around him (Stafford, Kupp, Higbee, a more reliable OL) he can and should be productive this year. I think 50+ catches/800 yards is likely (like in 2021). And like his dad, he might end up being a better player in years 4+ than he was in years 1-3.
Plus he's in a contract year which we know is a big motivator. He's unlikely to get his 2nd contract in LA but with a good season someone else will (and the Rams will net a decent 2025 comp. pick for him).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/20/2023 03:31AM by LMU93.
