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Projected as a late round pick, the Los Angeles Rams were rather fortunate to acquire former Georgia Tech receiver Ricky Jeune as an Undrafted Free Agent last April. Jeune certainly has the skill set to compete for an NFL job. His speed is virtually identical to Robert Woods’ speed, but he’s 3 inches taller and about 20 pounds heavier, which has helped him become a highly effective blocker. Although he will have to transition from the Yellow Jackets’ option offense, it really isn’t hard to imagine him clearing lanes for Todd Gurley downfield against NFL defensive backs.
Jeune is also a very capable big play receiver, averaging a staggering 20.2 yards per reception over the last three seasons in the ACC. Pro Football Focus gave Jeune the 3rd highest Passer Rating When Targeted score among receivers drafted in 2018. At 24 years of age and battle tested against ACC (as well as against Georgia, Tennessee, and Notre Dame) competition, Jeune seems equipped to make a statement in camp and preseason.
Georgia Tech has a knack for creating bionic receivers like Calvin Johnson and Demaryius Thomas. While Johnson and Thomas were far more highly touted upon arrival, it does seem like the opportunity may be there for Jeune to find a role in McVay’s offense down the line.
Roster Battle
When McVay arrived in L.A., he had plans to install his offense with a heavy reliance on two tight end sets. However, what McVay found was that by running more three wide receiver sets, Todd Gurley had far more space to work, and the rest is history. With Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods, and Cooper Kupp locked in as starters, Jeune will be looking to earn some situational spot work and play special teams. While many expect Josh Reynolds to soak up many of Sammy Watkins’ lost red zone receptions, Jeune may be a reliable target inside the 20 as well. Familiar names like Pharoh Cooper and Mike Thomas are still around, but have yet to make an impact as receivers. It’s fathomable that Jeune gives them a run for their money in camp.
Expectations
It would be a good idea for Jeune to make a good impression on Special Teams Coach John Fassel as gateway to making the roster. If he can do that and create some buzz as a receiver in the Rams vanilla preseason offense, he may just be able to stick around. If McVay is convinced that Jeune can be a dependable receiver, than he’ll find space for him on the roster or the practice squad.
Chances of Making Final Roster (4.5/10)
It really doesn’t feel like a stretch to envision Ricky Jeune being a helpful piece of McVay’s offense in the future. However, anytime your talking about an undrafted free agent, you have to necessarily temper your expectations. Nevertheless, keep an eye on Ricky Jeune this July and August.