The Rams have high expectations for their rookie class, particularly their top two selections from the second round. Cam Akers and Van Jefferson were selected to effectively replace Todd Gurley and Brandin Cooks, who the Rams parted ways with this spring.
Akers’ role should be bigger than Jefferson’s in 2020, just based on the depth chart at running back and wide receiver, but both players carry some fantasy value this year. Assuming Akers wins the starting running back spot, and Jefferson pushes Josh Reynolds for snaps at WR3, there’s reason to draft both players in fantasy.
The Huddle has released projections for every notable player in fantasy for the upcoming season, and Akers’ predicted stat line should make both fantasy owners and Rams fans happy. Jefferson’s numbers aren’t as impressive, which is to be expected, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the rookie receiver surpass these projections.
Here’s how they break down for each player.
- Akers (RB22): 950 yards, 8 TDs. 20 receptions, 180 yards, 1 TD. 167 fantasy points
- Jefferson (WR104): 22 receptions, 300 yards, 1 TD. 36 fantasy points
The biggest hurdle standing in Akers’ way is the Rams’ other running backs on the roster. Malcolm Brown is also competing for the starting role, as is Darrell Henderson, who’s currently recovering from a hamstring injury.
Akers has been getting plenty of first-team reps and is being brought along quickly by the coaching staff, but Brown and Henderson’s presence still looms large.
As for Jefferson, his role will be much more limited. Although he too has gotten first-team reps, he has three receivers ahead of him on the depth chart and the Rams rarely use four-receiver sets. He’ll need to make big plays when the opportunity arises in order to earn more playing time and reward fantasy owners who take a chance on him in the later rounds.
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