Every team needs that receiving threat that forces the D to make adjustments.
The Rams had hoped Tavon Austin would be that guy. I don't think he is; but he is a terrific weapon if used well.
A true #1 WR changes things dramatically. The Dallas O is a different animal with versus without Dez Bryant. Cincy is not as dangerous on O without AJ.
That said, a TE who is simply not guardable can substitute as we see with NE, and it was especially so when NE had two of them, until Hernandez was found out to be a stone cold murderer.
I don't know if Higbee can become that dominant. But I think he can become Kelce.
The Rams need to go all in for a #1 WR next year if one is attainable....FA or draft.
Britt is a fine #2 WR. Austin a great multi-use "weapon". Cooper and Spruce look like they are going to be very good slot guys with Spruce becoming our 3rd down and possibly Red Zone specialist. But the only guy who scares anybody is Austin and his diminutive size doesn't allow for 50/50 balls to be thrown his way. And the hallmark of a true #1 WR is that he wins most of the time on 50/50 balls.
It won't happen this year; but the top of my wish list for the Rams in between '16 and '17 is that WOW #1 WR. However they get him.