Things just haven’t gone the Rams’ way this offseason. They lost some key players from their roster such as Todd Gurley, Brandin Cooks, Corey Littleton, etc. via trades, free and free agency. They’ve also gotten some poor projections on the upcoming season with most seeing the team finishing with a record of 8-8.
However, the offense seemed to be finding their stride towards the end of last season and they could come into this season reloaded with new talent. Even after losing such a threat in Brandin Cooks, the receiving corps ranked 5th in Bleacher Reports’ recent power ranking.
2020 Wide Receivers: Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods, Josh Reynolds, Van Jefferson
Cooper Kupp doesn’t nearly get the credit he does for being a productive wide receiver. After a torn ACL ended his 2018 campaign early, he came back with a vengeance to produce 1,161 yards (team leader) with 10 touchdowns. With Brandin Cooks gone, Kupp is now the Rams top receiver. His physicality and ability to create separation from the slot should continue to give Goff the option he needs.
Robert Woods’ small profile of 6’0 doesn’t make him an ideal target but he has consistently been able to break free of coverage and put up back to back 1,000+ receiving yards for the Rams. Josh Reynolds figures to step into the No. 3 receiver spot after showing potential in multiple appearances last season. They could also turn to second-round draft pick Van Jefferson to jump in and get some reps this season for the team. Snead loves the polished route running that Jefferson has, as it reminds him of Woods and Kupp.
2020 Tight Ends: Tyler Higbee, Gerald Everett, Brycen Hopkins, Johnny Mundt
The Rams have made extensive use of their tight ends while running a 12 personnel offense. Tyler Higbee has quietly blossomed into one of the NFL’s top tight ends. Over the last five weeks of last season, his 522 receiving yards were the most by any player. Fellow teammate Gerald Everett suffered an injury in week 12 last season but before that, he caught 37 passes for 408 yards and 2 touchdowns. Newcomer Brycen Hopkins could play a role in the offense after receiving the highest production score of any tight end in this year’s draft while Johnny Mundt has proven he’s capable of stepping in when needed.
The Rams have a lot to prove this season with many people already ruling them out of the playoffs. Their receiving corps will have a lot to say about that this upcoming season along with the hope for a revamped run game. New offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell and head coach Sean McVay will have a lot to work with in hopes of reverting back to the 2018 Rams.
