Rams vs. Cardinals: Who Will Step Up in the Receiver Role?

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Rams’ Depleted Receiver Room Puts Pressure on Defense and Tight Ends

The Rams’ wide receiver situation is a major concern after the team failed to add anyone through the trade market. The lack of depth has reached the point where it feels as though almost anyone could be asked to line up at receiver.

That uncertainty makes the matchup against the Cardinals far from a guaranteed win. The Rams have already lost to Arizona once, while Carson Beck gives the Cardinals a better option than they have previously had.

Tutu Atwell could have a major opportunity in this game, while rookie CJ Daniels is another possible option despite not having taken the field yet. Regardless of who lines up at the X position, the expectation is that the player will receive plenty of targets. Whether those opportunities become catches will be up to the receiver.

The Rams could also lean heavily on 13 personnel and use their tight ends as primary receiving options. With the wide receiver room depleted, the tight ends may effectively become the team’s top targets.

Kyren Williams could also take on a larger role as a receiver out of the backfield. With Blake receiving more carries and scoring opportunities, Williams’ pass-catching ability could give the offense another way to compensate for its missing receivers.

Even with those possible adjustments, future Rams victories may need to be led by the healthy side of the roster: the defense. The offense may struggle to score consistently unless the defense creates points or favorable situations. That makes the addition of Myles Garrett especially important.

The Rams are still expected to win, but the path may involve a strong defensive performance, creative use of the tight ends and Williams in the passing game, and a commitment to running the ball.