Notes on Rams WRs

The Rams finished up their joint practices with the Titans on Thursday, and some interesting notes on the wide receivers -- easily one of the most intriguing positions to keep an eye on this fall -- came out of the sessions, via Bill Coats of the Around the Horns blog. First off, Drew Bennett had a less-than-impressive showing in the presence of his former team:

WR Drew Bennett had a rough day, with two outright drops and another ball that he should’ve caught in the end zone.

Bennett will be an important piece to the receiving corps this season, taking over for Bruce at the No.2 spot. We all know he was very uncomfortable in the slot last year, so hopefully he will feel more at home being the No.2. But it's not good to hear that he was dropping passes in camp. His numbers have dropped dramatically since he had his career year in 2004, and in order for him to come anywhere near that 1, 247 yard season, he certainly can't be dropping passes. It should be interesting to monitor his progress in the preseason.

Moving on, VanRam noted yesterday that Avery has been out since July 29. It appears that he may be returning to the field soon:

Rookie Donnie Avery, who has been out nearly two weeks with a small fracture in his pelvic bone, ran routes with the other WRs and appears close to getting back onto the field.

Good news.

VanRam also noted in the post that it could be Keenan Burton emerging as the No.3 if Avery isn't ready to go by September 7. Well, Burton is making a strong case, highlighted by a great catch yesterday :

Rookie WR Keenan Burton made a terrific grab, outbattling two defenders for the ball, on a pass from Trent Green that netted about 30 yards.

Should be interesting to watch this battle develop and see if Avery can come back strong. If he can play a few games in the preseason and look sharp doing so, the spot is his. Burton would then become a serviceable backup and nice option in 4-wide sets.

Go Rams.