Rams exchange veteran WR, Van Jefferson, with Falcons using late-round draft picks: Grading the trade

 The Los Angeles Rams have made a move recently by trading their veteran wide receiver, Van Jefferson, to the Atlanta Falcons in a deal that involved the exchange of late-round draft picks. This trade has been making headlines in the world of football and has garnered mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. In this essay, we will delve into the details of this trade and grade its outcome.

Van Jefferson is a versatile receiver who was initially drafted by the Rams in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He played 16 games for the Rams in the 2020 season, registering 19 receptions for 220 yards and one touchdown. He was primarily used in the slot position and was effective in creating space for the Rams’ offense. However, the Rams have a plethora of talented wide receivers, including Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. Therefore, it was not surprising that they decided to let go of Jefferson.

On the other hand, the Atlanta Falcons have been in the market for a reliable slot receiver, and Van Jefferson fits the bill. With Julio Jones traded to the Tennessee Titans earlier this year, the Falcons have been looking for a suitable replacement to fill up the gap. Jefferson’s speed, agility, and experience in the slot position make him an ideal fit for the Falcons’ offense.

In the trade, the Rams sent Van Jefferson and their 2022 fifth-round draft pick to the Falcons in exchange for the Falcons’ 2022 fourth-round draft pick. At first glance, it might seem like the Falcons have won this trade due to the higher value of the fourth-round pick. However, grading a trade cannot be determined solely based on draft picks. The ultimate factor that decides whether or not a trade was beneficial for both parties is how well the players involved perform in their new teams.

For the Rams, trading Jefferson means they can allocate more playing time and targets to their other receivers, notably Kupp and Woods. It also opens up a roster spot for a younger and less experienced receiver to step up and prove their worth. Moreover, the Rams were able to acquire a higher draft pick, albeit a round higher, meaning they might be able to draft a player that better fits their current needs.

Meanwhile, the Falcons have gained a solid receiver in Van Jefferson, who brings experience to their relatively young team. He is highly expected to become an asset to the Falcons, especially in the slot position. However, the Falcons have lost a valuable draft pick in the trade, which might affect their chances of building a stronger team in the future.

In conclusion, the Rams exchange of Van Jefferson with the Falcons using late-round draft picks can be considered a mutually beneficial trade. Both parties were able to acquire players that will help them in their future endeavors, and the trade might prove advantageous for both teams in the long run. While the Rams were able to gain a higher draft pick, the Falcons acquired much-needed experience and talent in their receiver core. All in all, the Rams and Falcons made a calculated and well-thought-out move, and only time will tell whether the trade will pay off.