Rams’ Akers and Jefferson receive high praise from ESPN analysts

Cam Akers and Van Jefferson could have a big impact as rookies.

After either losing and parting ways with a lot of talent this offseason, the Los Angeles Rams figure to get early contributions out of their incoming draft class. Cam Akers could be the No. 1 running back, Van Jefferson has a chance to be the No. 3 receiver, and Terrell Lewis will push for a starting job at outside linebacker. Terrell Burgess could also be the nickel corner and/or backup free safety.

Some fans were puzzled by the team’s early picks, but a lot of analysts like what the Rams did with their first two selections, grabbing Akers and Jefferson five picks apart.

ESPN recently polled its analysts for nine bold predictions about the 2020 draft class, and both Akers and Jefferson were highlighted for positive reasons. When asked for one bold prediction about a single draft pick, Jeremy Fowler said Akers will approach 1,000 yards rushing in 2020.

Jeremy Fowler, national NFL writer: Cam Akers will push for 1,000 rushing yards. Many scouts love Akers and believe playing behind a bad Florida State line hurt his stock. Now, the second-round pick enters an ideal situation with the Los Angeles Rams, who rely heavily on the running game. Los Angeles’ backfield needs a burst of explosion for the post-Todd-Gurley era.

Pro Football Focus projected Akers to rush for 895 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie, so this prediction from Fowler isn’t far off. And even though Darrell Henderson remains on the depth chart, Akers has a better chance to be a workhorse.

Jefferson was the other Rams draft pick who received high praise, with three analysts saying he’s a rookie drafted outside the first round who will have some fantasy value in 2020.

Bowen: Van Jefferson, WR, Los Angeles Rams. With Brandin Cooks no longer in the mix, Jefferson has a shot to lock down that No. 3 role in an offense that leans on three-receiver personnel. With top-tier route-running traits and strong hands at the catch point, Jefferson can develop into a consistent target for quarterback Jared Goff off play-action throws and isolation routes.

Graziano: Jefferson. When in doubt, bet on Sean McVay’s system to produce strong passing-game fantasy numbers. There is opportunity for Jefferson in Los Angeles.

Reid: Jefferson. McVay loves Jefferson’s route running. Don’t be surprised if Jefferson gets a whole bunch of targets this season.

Jefferson has more competition for playing time than Akers does, but he still has a chance to contribute as a rookie. He’ll have to beat out Josh Reynolds, who the Rams have said repeatedly is a starting-caliber receiver, for the No. 3 wideout role.

The Rams don’t often run four-receiver sets under McVay, but there has been talk of them expanding their personnel packages to get more creative. That should get Jefferson on the field as a rookie.

If Akers and Jefferson can have strong rookie years, it’ll set up the Rams nicely on offense moving forward.

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