Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods have established themselves as the top two receivers on the Rams’ roster. No one will argue against that. However, there’s a group of wideouts behind them that will be battling for playing time on offense in 2021.
Second-year receiver Van Jefferson is among them, as are DeSean Jackson and rookie Tutu Atwell. Sean McVay and the Rams’ coaches haven’t said who will be the No. 3 receiver this season, and not even Jefferson knows.
He told reporters Tuesday after reporting to camp that he’s wondering how the pecking order will shake out, just as everyone else is.
Second-year Rams WR Van Jefferson was asked if he knows how the team's receivers will carve up catches this season, with DeSean Jackson and second-round draft pick Tutu Atwell joining the group. "I'm as curious as everybody else," he said.
— Kevin Modesti (@KevinModesti) July 27, 2021
Jefferson’s role last season was limited by Josh Reynolds’ presence, but with Reynolds now a member of the Titans, there’s a hole at WR3. The Rams drafted Jefferson to eventually become a starter and this is a perfect opportunity for him to take that next step.
Jackson and Atwell are more specialized players with elite speed and traits to be deep threats in the Rams’ offense. Jackson is Jefferson’s stiffest competition, especially since the veteran previously worked with – and thrived with – Sean McVay while in Washington.