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When the Rams released their first depth chart of the year, there’s a reason they said it was “unofficial.” That’s because it’s not actually put out by the coaching staff, but rather the PR and media department.
Fans noticed Cooper Kupp being listed as the only punt returner, which came as a surprise. Sean McVay says he never even looked at the depth chart, but insisted that Kupp will not be the team’s punt returner.
“I didn’t see that depth chart if we did. He won’t be our punt returner,” McVay said.
It wouldn’t make any sense for Kupp to be the team’s primary punt returner, given the circumstances. Special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis wants someone who can drop the ball over the goal line in the return game. Kupp is a good athlete, but he’s not the most explosive option at punt returner.
He’s also dealt with injuries during his career, so putting him back there to return punts would only increase the likelihood of him getting hurt. Needless to say, the Rams need him more on offense than they do on special teams.
McVay didn’t specify who will be the punt returner, but the competition is still open. Tutu Atwell is capable of handling that job, as are Landen Akers, Jeremiah Haydel and Otis Anderson. The Rams will likely go with one of those rookies before putting Kupp back there.
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