LA Rams News: TE Jordan Reed signs with rival 49ers

LA Rams News: Former free agency target Jordan Reed has signed on with the 49ers

The LA Rams created a bit of a buzz when the team was rumored to be discussing adding former Washington tight end, Jordan Reed. At that time, the Rams’ connection to Reed was very logical. Both head coach Sean McVay and offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell originally hailed from the Washington football team organization, and both had a deep respect for the pass-catching talents of Reed during their time with that team.

In our analysis of the trade rumor, we identified Reed as a target for the Rams in both 2019 and early in 2020. In both instances, the subject of Jordan Reed’s health became a sticking point. Much like former Rams WR Brandin Cooks, Reed has been plagued with an unprecedented number of concussions. There are seven documented cases, and the number could be significantly higher.

Concussion risk, an elite receiver reward

The last concussion was suffered at the beginning of 2019 and forced Reed to sit out the entire 2019 NFL season. Is he healthy enough to play? The San Francisco 49ers think so, at least enough to sign him to an NFL contract.

The report by Adam Schefter surfaced today, seemingly from nowhere. A player that the Rams kicked the tires on in two consecutive seasons has now signed with their division rivals. Were the Rams wise to pass on Reed, twice?

Former Washington Football Team Pro Bowl TE Jordan Reed reached agreement on an incentive-laden, one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers, sources tell ESPN. Reed is 30, has a history of concussions, but when healthy - as he is now - he is one of the game’s elite tight ends.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 3, 2020

Time will tell.

49ers need offensive weapons

The San Francisco 49ers are in a bad way right now. They need weapons for their passing game. They lost WR Emmanuel Sanders to free agency, and Deebo Samuels has since injured his foot and could be out for a substantial part of the season. That leaves veteran tight end George Kittle and rookie WR Brandon Aiyuk as the two primary passing threats. You can bet NFL teams will double-team TE Kittle.

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So the 49ers did what they had to do. Sign a bona fide weapon to add to their passing game. By signing Reed today, they will ensure he gets as much of a crash course of the 49ers offensive playbook as their rookies. Reed, when healthy, can be a solid receiver for the 49ers. Will he stay healthy? Even the Redskins decided that the chances are not worth gambling on.

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