For those who followed my draft coverage this year, then you already know I love Van Jefferson. The Rams picked the Florida wide receiver in the 2nd round of the draft. Given the options already on the roster (Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, and Josh Reynolds) it remained unclear if Jefferson could make an impact right away as a rookie. However, the early reports on Jefferson are ENCOURAGING.
It’s safe to say Jared Goff loves his shiny new toy, Van Jefferson:
“Van has been really good, man,” Goff said, per the team’s official transcript. “He’s been really good. I say that cautiously because you never want these young guys to get too far ahead of themselves (laughs). But he’s been really impressive and done a good job. It reminds me a lot of when Cooper was a rookie, and he was just so far ahead of where a rookie kind of should be. He’s done a great job. He’s really picking things up fast. 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.”
The report by NFL Network indicates Jefferson has been the “darling of training camp” thus far. This shouldn’t be too surprising. Great route runners translate to the NFL the fastest. Goff says an interesting line there. Jefferson reminded Goff of a young Cooper Kupp. I think that’s important to note.
In 3 straight years, 3 wide receivers dominated at the Senior Bowl with elite route running traits. Cooper Kupp, Deebo Samuel, and Van Jefferson. If you’re not sure what I mean, I’ll drop these notes here. Jefferson put on a clinic at the Senior Bowl.
I think more and more people understand the fact that Jared Goff stinks. Give the Rams credit. They’re doing their best to try to hide it. Players that consistently get open like Jefferson will only help matters.
