LA Rams: 8 players who could be gone after the 2021 NFL season
By Bret Stuter
Speedy wide receiver
From the moment that the LA Rams signed veteran speedster DeSean Jackson. the design of the Rams offense changed to a more aggressive playset. Much like the introduction of OLB Leonard Floyd helped the Rams defense through the learning phase of the new defensive scheme of DC Brandon Staley, Jackson’s arrival to this offense will no doubt jumpstart the offense to learn the more aggressive play-calling of head coach Sean McVay.
The best years of DeSean Jackson’s well-storied career were those with the Washington Football Team where he became a dangerously effective wide receiver for then offensive coordinator Sean McVay. In a bit of a renaissance for both coach and player, they will reunite to showcase their common understanding of how to make defensive coordinators wet themselves as they witness Jackson streaking 80+ yards for a touchdown score.
Too optimistic? Don’t bet on it. While DeSean Jackson has played in just eight of his past 32 NFL games, he has fallen off the radar. Defensive coordinators won’t stress the preparations for a guy who has only a 25 percent chance of suiting up and playing against the defense. Ergo, they will plan to defend the other receivers.
I honestly would not be surprised if this is DeSean Jackson’s deliberate last hurrah before he himself announces his retirement. Of course, a decision of that magnitude may hinge upon the type of season he has this year. If he remains healthy and productive, he could price himself out of the Rams budget. If he is injured or ineffective, he may not be offered another opportunity to play in the NFL again. He needs a year where he stays healthy. The Rams need him to showcase just how a deep threat receiver overpowers the offense. After that? The two sides could part ways once more.