Xavier Smith, despite having a fantastic preseason, was waived and then signed to the Rams’ practice squad during final roster cuts. Because of the team’s injuries at wideout, Smith has spent the last three games getting activated from the practice squad, playing, and then immediately reverting back to the practice squad.
Well, according to NFL rules, teams are only allowed to do that three times per player per season. After three games, the player must be signed to the active roster if the team wants him to play on game days.
Because of that rule, the Rams must sign Smith to the 53-man roster in order to maintain him as their primary return specialist. If they don’t, he won’t be able to play in another game all year.
Not only has Smith been a contributor on special teams as a returner, but his presence allows Kyren Williams and Blake Corum to do what they do best without having to worry about fielding punts and kicks. It also mitigates the chance of injury for the Rams’ running back duo.
Williams already touches the ball around 20 times per game and he’s on the field for the majority of offensive snaps. Taking special teams responsibilities off his plate gives him a little less wear on his young tires.
Smith is finally getting an understanding of the offense. Despite limited reps, Smith hauled in the first two catches in his NFL career on Sunday against the Packers. Smith’s two receptions came on only two targets, totaling 6 yards. If the Rams’ WR room picks up another injury, Smith would be ready for the moment – and that’s not out of the question after Jordan Whittington had his arm in a sling on Sunday night.
Smith has proven himself time after time this season and quite frankly, are probably still winless without his punt return against San Francisco.
Smith has an opportunity to establish himself in the NFL and potentially secure his financial future. The Rams have an opportunity to find a solution to what has been a long-term special teams problem.
They really have no choice but to sign him to the active roster, a move Smith is well-deserving of.