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Los Angeles Rams WR Pharoh Cooper finds himself in a predicament.
On one hand, he’s a 4th-round pick from the 2016 NFL Draft that hasn’t done anything to jeopardize his standing with new head coach Sean McVay. On the other hand, he hasn’t done anything to solidify his standing among newcomers Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds (roster preview).
How he performs in camp will likely determine his role in 2017 - moreso than his counterparts at least.
Roster Battle
As mentioned above, Cooper will be working to fend off Kupp and Reynolds for reps as the Rams #3 WR. Kupp will be trying to ride his record-breaking NCAA career to a significant role while Reynolds brings a different dynamic - speed - to the table for the Rams receiving corps.
With Tavon Austin and Robert Woods seemingly entrenched as the starters and Kupp officially listed as the starter in the slot, that leaves Cooper and Reynolds battling for remaining snaps. Unfortunately for Cooper, he can’t match Reynolds’ game-breaking speed - which could relegate Pharoh to a lesser role in 2017.
Expectations
His chances will be limited, so he’s gonna have to make the most of the opportunities he’s given. Even if he maximizes those opportunities though, he’s waiting on an injury (knock on wood) to occur before he can get significant snaps.
Chances of Making Roster (8/10)
Yes, Cooper was drafted while Jeff Fisher was head coach. Yes, they drafted Kupp and Reynolds. But that likely won’t jeopardize his roster spot.
Cooper’s at a disadvantage in the roster battle, but the Rams aren’t in a position to thin out their WR corps either. He likely hangs around as a depth WR and possible kick returner this year.