2019 Los Angeles Rams roster preview: WR Josh Reynolds, wide out

How is Los Angeles Rams WR Josh Reynolds supposed to get involved?

Last year, Reynolds added more responsibility after fellow WR Cooper Kupp went down with his ACL injury. In Kupp’s absence, Head Coach Sean McVay moved some pieces around. WR Robert Woods moved into Kupps’ slot positon, and Reynolds moved to the outside.

In 2018, he more than doubled his targets and receptions from his 2017 rookie season, while recording 402 receiving yard and snagging five touchdown passes.

But Kupp is back and good to go for training camp.

How is Reynolds supposed to step up?

Roster battle

With Kupp’s return, Reynolds will no doubt be affected. But in my opinion, it’s more of a question where he will be on the field, not so much how much playing time will he get. The Rams are littered with talent at the WR position with Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods and Kupp, but that’s not to say Reynolds will be squeezed out. He’s too reliable.

Expectations

I fully expect Reynolds to help ease Kupp’s return to the regular season by taking over some of his reps that Kupp would otherwise get. If Kupp returns to full potential, then Reynolds could see himself on a rotation.

Reynolds was a reliable — and underrated — piece of the offense last season. According to Pro Football Focus of the 49 targets aimed at Reynolds, only 29 were deemed catchable. Reynolds caught all 29. With his big frame and speed, there’s no doubt that we could see him, at the very least, record the same numbers from 2018.

Chances of making the roster (8/10)

Reynolds’ opportunity to help fill in for Kupp’s void was more like a job interview, one he aced. He proved he could play with purpose and be whatever the Rams needed him to be. He will likely improve himself and earn a greater role in this offense.