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After flashing potential as a deep threat in his rookie year, St. Louis Rams receiver Chris Givens had some pretty big expectations heading into the 2013 season.
In 2012 – his rookie year – Givens stat line looked like this : 42 catches, 689 yards, and three TDs. He had a catch of 20 yards or more in eight games; a catch of 50 yards or more in five games.
With the free agency departures of fellow receivers Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson, Givens was poised to get the lion's share of the looks in the passing game.
However, Givens' sophomore campaign did nothing but disappoint. Expected to take on the No. 1 receiver role, Chris regressed in form.
Look for Chris Givens to treat 2014 as his redemption season.
Expectations for the 2014 Season
In 2013, Givens' stat line – 34 catches-569 yards-zero touchdowns – was, honestly, piss poor pathetic.
Chris said it himself; his lack of production (lack of touchdowns, specifically) made him reevaluate himself and his entire lifestyle.
In response, Givens spent the off-season working out in Arizona, with Mack Newton – a trainer former Ram great Aeneas Williams referred him to. In addition to the suggested changed of scenery, Williams also connected Givens with former Rams receiver Isaac Bruce.
With the off-season changes Givens made, it is expected for him to take a leap and get his career back on track after the forgettable 2013 season.
In or Out?
Unless for some unforeseeable reason, Givens has a spot on the Rams roster this year. He sounds like he has re-focused himself. But at this point, it's all talk. Until we see some legitimate results, take this player-speak with a huge grain of salt.
Especially since all of them seem to rise & grind.