Posted on: October 11, 2023, 10:06h.
Last updated on: October 11, 2023, 10:06h.
The Los Angeles Rams and Atlanta Falcons agreed on a trade for wide receiver Van Jefferson. The Rams will send Jefferson and a seventh-round pick to the Falcons in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
The NFL trade deadline is on October 31, and the Rams were one of the first teams to make headlines with the Jefferson trade.
The addition of Jefferson provides the Falcons with much-needed depth in their wide receiver room.
During his four-year tenure with the Rams, Jefferson contributed 101 receptions for 1,499 yards and ten touchdowns. He was a part of the squad that won Super Bowl LVI.
The Rams (2-3) are in third place in the NFC West, which is led by the undefeated San Francisco 49ers (5-0). The 49ers are a huge favorite to win the division at -800 odds, and the Rams are a long shot to win the NC West at +2000.
Falcons Upgrade Offense with Jefferson
The Atlanta Falcons have struggled on offense this season, averaging just 16.6 points per game. Their passing game has been particularly weak, generating only 195 air yards per game, ranking them 23rd in the league. Additionally, they are ranked 21st in Offensive DVOA according to advanced analytics.
Currently, the Falcons have a 3-2 record, with all three wins coming at home and both losses on the road.
At home, the Falcons average 23.3 points per game, but on the road, they only manage to score an average of 6.5 points. Quarterback Desmond Ridder performs better at home in the dome of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Falcons heavily rely on their rushing attack, led by Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. However, their passing game needs improvement. Tight ends Jonnu Smith and Kyle Pitts lead the team in receiving yards, with Smith also tied for the team lead in receptions.
Van Jefferson is expected to fill the WR #2 spot for the Falcons, providing a boost to their passing game. With Jefferson alongside WR #1 London, the Falcons hope to improve their offensive production.
Jefferson Odd Man Out in L.A.
The return of All-Pro wide receiver Cooper Kupp and the emergence of rookie Puka Nacua made Van Jefferson surplus to requirements in Los Angeles. Nacua has quickly become Matthew Stafford’s favorite target, posting impressive numbers in his first three games. Jefferson struggled to make an impact, catching just eight passes for 108 yards in four games.
Tight end Tyler Higbee also competes for targets in the Rams’ offense, further limiting Jefferson’s opportunities. With Tutu Atwell as the WR #3, Jefferson found himself relegated to a lesser role in the Rams’ passing game.
Falcons Eye Playoff Berth in Wide-Open NFC South
After the first five weeks of the season, the NFC South is wide open, with three teams tied at three wins each. The division winner will secure a playoff spot, and the Falcons have a favorable schedule moving forward.
Currently, the Falcons are listed at -130 odds to make the playoffs, while you can bet on them missing the postseason at +110 odds. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lead the division, followed closely by the Falcons and the New Orleans Saints.