LA Rams WR Van Jefferson indomitable in training camp

Diamond in the rough

One of the most overused terms in any NFL Draft analysis and mock drafts is “best player available”.  Not only is that a very subjective perspective, but most NFL teams use the “best player available at this position” method.  The Rams clearly needed a running back from the draft. But did the team truly need a wide receiver?

Well yes and no. While the Rams receivers are crowded in 2020, that won’t be the case in 2021. Right now the LA Rams risk parting ways with both WR Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds as both have contracts that run out at the end of this season.  So that creates a bit of a need. But why Jefferson, and why round two for crying out loud?

First-round talent in round two

Well, for starters, Van Jefferson is not “some” wide receiver.  While he was not a perfect fit for all 32 NFL teams, he certainly seemed to fall into that category for the LA Rams.  Head coach Sean McVay is a visionary when it comes to the NFL passing game. But to work, he needs a precision route runner from his receivers. He needs sure hands from his receivers. And he needs a player who possesses a high football IQ. Van Jefferson buries the needle to peak on those parameters.

His draft stock fell because he had a foot injury detected at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine. Injured foot meant no running, no cutting, no drills.  The key measures for wide receivers for the NFL draft, impossible.  Jefferson was suddenly given a medical flag in a year when they were impossible to clear in time for the draft.  A rising star suddenly watched his draft stock fall. Out of round one and deep into round two.