The Los Angeles Rams haven’t put a lot of fear into their 2017 opponents by adding free-agent Robert Woods to and underwhelming wide receiver group featuring Tavon Austin.
Perhaps they didn’t go after that big-name target because they believe he’s already on the roster.
Los Angeles could be hoping that second-year tight end Tyler Higbee becomes the equivalent of the Washington Redskins’ Jordan Reed, Yahoo Sports reported, based on a RosterWatch text about general manager Les Snead’s feelings on the Rams player:
Snead says to “expect big things” in 2017 and moving forward from 2nd year TE Tyler Higbee. Envisions a breakout in McVay’s system. #Rams
— RosterWatch (@RosterWatch) March 2, 2017
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Adds Yahoo Sports: “With McVay, the tight end will be a key component in getting the Rams downfield and more efficient in the red zone. Both net pluses for a team who labored on offense.”
Rams head coach Sean McVay served as the Redskins offensive coordinator in 2016, and Reed had 66 receptions for 686 yards and six touchdowns in just 12 games. His 2015 was even better; Reed had 87 catches for 952 yards and 11 TDs.
By comparison, Higbee finished his rookie season with 11 receptions for 85 yards and one touchdown.
In fact, approaching Reed’s numbers would be quite step up in production for Higbee, the 6-foot-5, 233-pound 24-year-old from Western Kentucky. In four seasons with the Hilltoppers, Higbee had 68 catches for 1,054 yards and 14th touchdowns.
His best year was his senior year in 2015 when he had 38 grabs for 563 yards and an impressive eight scores.
Los Angeles needs a security blanket for second-year quarterback Jared Goff. And if Higbee becomes a weapon, both Austin and Woods can benefit to where the offense is not abysmal anymore.
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