Expectations are higher than ever for the Los Angeles Rams leading up to the 2021 NFL season following the acquisition of quarterback Matthew Stafford.
The offense for head coach Sean McVay largely fell short of expectations during the 2020 campaign. Although McVay has taken responsibility for the lack of explosive plays coming from this side of the ball, it became evident that this group was being held back by their struggles under center with Jared Goff.
Stafford will be backed by a stronger supporting cast than what he had for 12 years with the Detroit Lions. After all, this receiving corps already boasts one of the most productive tandems in the league between Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp.
The addition of wide receiver DeSean Jackson and emergence of running back Cam Akers adds another intriguing dynamic to the offense around Stafford. It seems he is well aware of the firepower that is at his disposal in L.A., via Sarina Morales of the team’s official website:
It’s extremely talented. I think it’s a great blend of guys who are young in Van Jefferson, and a guy who’s a little bit longer in the tooth, and that’s DeSean, but can still really move. And then a couple guys that I think are right in the middle of their prime in Cooper and Robert, so I’m excited. I don’t know everybody in and out yet, but I’m excited to get to work with these guys and see who can do what and develop that rapport with.
It is safe to say that the prospect of joining such a talented group played a major role in Stafford listing the Rams as one of his landing spots this offseason. Meanwhile, McVay’s reputation as an offensive guru also helped sweeten the pot for the next chapter of his career.
There is certainly plenty of truth to Stafford’s comments regarding the healthy balance of veteran and young talent on this offense. While Woods and Kupp will remain as go-to options for the gunslinger, it will be interesting to see how Jackson and wide receiver Van Jefferson are utilized in the passing game.
Akers and tight end Tyler Higbee are poised to serve as safety nets for Stafford underneath. However, McVay noted that this offense has lacked a true deep threat since the departure of wide receiver Brandin Cooks.
Even though a healthy Jackson is capable of filling the void as a proven speedster, Jefferson will need to make some strides if he hopes to establish himself in the backing order among all this talent.
