3 reasons why Rams added FA RB Boston Scott just hours after the draft

III: Oops, Rams forgot to land a special team return specialist

One of the obvious and instantaneous roles that veteran running back Boston Scott brings to teh LA Rams roster is the fact that he has productive and extensive experience as a special team return specialist. In 2023, the team did no favors for new ST Coordinator Chase Blackburn whatsoever.

In terms of investing in special teams, the front office did draft Wingate punter Ethan Evans in Round 7 of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 225th pick of the draft. After that, the team signed long snapper Alex Ward and kickers Christopher Dunn and Tanner Brown after the 2023 NFL Draft. As far as return specialists, Blackburn had to forage among lesser used players on the roster for that role, eventually settling on seldom used WR Austin Trammel for both the punt return and kick return role.

With Trammel's contract expiring in the offseason, the team needs to reinvest in a return specialist. The front office, whether by oversight or deliberate action, failed to address a returner in the 2024 NFL Draft. But they compensated for that gaffe by landing a solid veteran who has over 1500 return yards to his credit.

Perhaps best of all, Scott has return experience of four seasons in the NFL Playoffs. The lights are brightest and the stage is vast in post-season competition. With Boston Scott on the team, there is a level of expertise that cannot be matched by younger and less experienced players. Chase Blackburn was outgunned and outmanned in 2023. But thanks to the front office, the cavalry has arrived for 2024.