Los Angeles Rams: Cooper Kupp expectations unfair?
High expectations for rookie wide receiver Cooper Kupp are synonymous with forecasts of an improved Los Angeles Rams offense
Expectations for Cooper Kupp are unreal, and the calendar hasn’t even hit July, yet. The Los Angeles Rams rookie is the most prolific wide receiver in FCS history. He set records for receptions (428), receiving yards (6,424) and touchdowns (73) during his college career.
He’s already on a Bleacher Report list of draft-day steals — in the honorable mention category, but still. An ESPN.com report mentions his name with Robert Woods as keys to an improved Rams offense in 2017. Also, a Rams Wire report mentioned future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning’s fondness of throwing to him.
Slow down.
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The kid attended Eastern Washington, not Washington. He’s a third-round draft pick with “very average speed”, a draft analyst told NFL.com. Additionally, the Rams already have a $42 million receiver in Tavon Austin. They signed free agent Robert Woods to a five-year, $39 million contract. They also chose a tight end, South Alabama’s Gerald Everett, in the second round of the draft.
Those should be the players with expecations in L.A. Not the FCS standout who played just four games against Pac-12 competition during his career.
Like quarterback Jared Goff, Kupp needs time to grow into his role. Both he and Woods give the Rams a sure-handed, possession-type wide receiver. Their effectiveness will increase if Austin, Everett or tight end Tyler Higbee can seize the No. 1 receiver role.
Asking Kupp for a 100-reception rookie season is unrealistic. Tying gaudy statistics to the Rams’ offensive success, however, is unfair. And that doesn’t event take into account running back Todd Gurley’s role in the Rams potential for success in 2017.
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Fortunately, coach Sean McVay’s scheme spreads the ball in the Rams offense. No one receiver should have to stand out. Ironically, Kupp already has stood out in an obscure capacity. Therefore, his best chance to contribute to the Rams in 2017 should be under the radar.