Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Van Jefferson has wasted no time in turning heads at training camp as his skill set was on full display during the team’s first scrimmage.
Jefferson’s arrival as a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft generated plenty of hype within the Rams organization thanks to his similarities to wide receiver Cooper Kupp and pedigree as the son of former NFL wideout/current New York Jets receiver coach Shawn Jefferson. Like Kupp, it has become apparent early on that his talent is developed well beyond any average rookie.
The restrictions placed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have offered up its own set of challenges for new players trying to get acclimated to life in the NFL. Fortunately, this has done little to deter Jefferson from making a seamless transition so far.
Jefferson’s arrival has led to plenty of speculation regarding his potential spot in the pecking order for the receiving corps. Regardless, he is just focused on honing his craft, via Stu Jackson of the team’s official website:
“I’m always confident in myself whether that’s any rotation I’m going with,” Jefferson said during a video conference with reporters Sunday evening. “Just focus on my fundamentals, focus on my assignments and focus on what I need to do. I just feel like I just go out there and just play my game. Mistakes are going to happen, so just as long as you correct them and come back from them, you’ll be fine.”
Quarterback Jared Goff shared some high praise for Jefferson’s skill set and mental acuity:
“He’s done a great job. He’s really picking things up fast,” Goff said. “He’s obviously extremely athletic, but I think his ability to be able to pick up the offense mentally and understand the little intricacies of it has been really impressive, and I’m excited to play with him.”
Goff’s comments indicate that Jefferson has managed to surpass the expectations that were placed on him going into training camp. The onus will now fall on the rookie to show that he is ready to produce once his number is called in the 2020 NFL season.
Unfortunately, the preseason being cancelled means that Jefferson will not have a chance to show the Rams how it translates to live action until the regular season begins. For now, he continues to compete with the more tested Josh Reynolds for the notable void left in the receiving corps by Brandin Cooks this offseason.
