The Los Angeles Rams made a concerted effort to revamp their receiving corps this offseason with the addition of DeSean Jackson and Tutu Atwell.
After all, the acquisition of quarterback Matthew Stafford has turned them into Super Bowl favorites leading up to the 2021 NFL season. It only makes sense that they would do what they can to beef up his supporting cast.
Stafford’s arrival has not gone unnoticed throughout the NFL. It appears his new home has helped catch the eye of free agent wide receiver Golden Tate.
Tate listed the Rams as one of his ideal landing spots along with the Tennessee titans and Philadelphia Eagles during an appearance on SiriusXM NFL Radio:
“I would love to go back home to Tennessee,” Tate said. “Indy, over with Carson Wentz. Obviously, the L.A. Rams would be fantastic with Stafford. I had my best years with Stafford. I really like the entire NFC West, to be honest.”
Tate is clearly looking for a sense of familiarity, whether it is going back home or with a quarterback he enjoyed solid production with. His opinion of the NFC West as a whole is also indicative of the divisions standing as a powerhouse this season.
Reuniting with Stafford on a contender like the Rams would certainly be the best of both worlds for Tate. He was a go-to option in the passing game with three 1,000-yard seasons during their days with the Detroit Lions.
L.A. being pegged as an initial frontrunner to trade for wide receiver Julio Jones indicates there is still some interest in bringing in another weapon at the right price. Unfortunately, there may be a bit too much baggage involved in order to make it come to fruition.
It is no secret that there is some history between Tate and cornerback Jalen Ramsey following their skirmish after the team’s win over the New York Giants in Week 4 last season.
Ramsey was already notably disappointed that the Rams reportedly bowed out of the trade for Jones. Using their last bit of resources to bring in Tate may not sit well if he is not consulted first.
Not to mention, the Rams already boast a surplus of weapons in the receiving corps between Jackson, Atwell, Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. It may not even be worth the risk involved for a veteran that will be competing for quality snaps.
If they do not, L.A. may have to be prepared to deal with him on a divisional rival.
