One week after the debut of the St. Louis Rams highly regarded rookie running back Todd Gurley, the team is set to debut another offensive weapon this week in Arizona. Reciever Brian Quick will return to the field for the first time in almost a year when the Rams take on the Cardinals in Week 4. After some speculation that Quick had fallen out of favor in St. Louis, it appears the coaching staff may have simply been covering for his extended recovery period from a shoulder injury he suffered in 2014.
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Quick began working with the first team earlier this week during practice and began dropping hints that this could be his time to return.
A shoulder injury suffered in Week 7 of the 2014 regular season ended the campaign for the young wide out, and some even speculated as to whether or not the injury would end his career. However, after a lengthy recovery, Quick will return when the Rams need an offensive boost in the biggest way. Quick mentioned he was simply focused on making the most of his opportunities.
"“(It’s been) a longtime coming. I’m just ready to go out there and take advantage of the opportunity I have.” Quick said. “I’m going to take the same approach I always do as far as staying calm and staying focused. As an offense you have to be calm and just do the little things right. It’s about details.”(Nick Wagoner, ESPN)"
As for what kept him out, well that seems to be simpler than most thought.
"“It was everything period.” Quick said. “Just getting back to the speed that I need to get back to. I’m still working.” (Wagoner, ESPN)"
After missing more than half the season last year, and organized team activities this year, it’s not surprising it took Quick so long to get back to game ready. He participated in training camp, but wore the non-contact yellow helmet cover for most of camp and spent a majority of his time with the second team offense.
Oct 5, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; St. Louis Rams wide receiver Brian Quick (83) Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports
It remains to be seen how involved Quick will be against the Cardinals. It’s safe to expect him to be on a pitch count similar to Gurley’s debut against Pittsburgh. Game flow will certainly determine much of his involvement. Head coach Jeff Fisher spoke about his transition into the first team offense this week.
"“He stepped right in there and literally was flawless with his reps. He knows exactly what to do.” (Wagoner, ESPN)"
That’s good news for St. Louis as they have struggled to move the ball through the air this season.
When Quick went down in 2014 he was leading the team with 375 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Quick was on pace to have the best year of his career. Inserting him back into the offense should open up more options for quarterback Nick Foles.
Now entering the final year of his contract, Quick will need to make an impact in the next 12 weeks if he hopes to call St. Louis home in 2016.