Los Angeles Rams get route running freak Van Jefferson

The Los Angeles Rams lost Brandin Cooks this offseason in a trade with the Houston Texans. They replaced him with Florida’s Van Jefferson.

After trading speedy receiver Brandin Cooks to the Houston Texans, the Los Angeles Rams had to replenish some of their depth at the wide receiver position.

They did that with one of their two second-round picks by drafting Van Jefferson, the route running extraordinaire out of Florida.

Jefferson, like many players in this draft class, is a legacy player. His father is Shawn Jefferson, the former NFL receiver who played 13 years in the pros.

His son Van is some kind of route runner, which shouldn’t come as a surprise since it’s in his very blood.

Jefferson doesn’t have dynamic speed but he is really tough to cover because he understands how to manipulate corners with his hops, shoulders, head fakes, and foot quickness.

Perhaps Jefferson’s greatest strength is his confidence. Despite not being as big, physical, or fast as other receivers, he certainly has the type of poise required to hang with NFL defensive backs right away. He’s not easily fazed.

For the Rams right away, Jefferson could see work both on the outside and in the slot. Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods will do the heavy lifting at the wide receiver position, but there will undoubtedly be a year one role for Jefferson who might see a lot of one-on-one coverage.

If that’s the case, don’t be surprised if he catches 50 passes. This kid has strong hands, understands how to manipulate coverage, and can get himself open at every level of the field.

He caught 12 touchdowns over the last two seasons at Florida after spending the first three years of his college career at Ole Miss. His best playing days are likely ahead of him, especially in this Sean McVay offense.