Atlanta Falcons Acquire Los Angeles Rams Receiver Van Jefferson in Trade
The Atlanta Falcons have made a move to bolster their receiving corps by acquiring Van Jefferson from the Los Angeles Rams. The trade was confirmed by a source to ESPN on Tuesday. In exchange for Jefferson, the Falcons will send a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Rams, who will receive a seventh-round selection in the same year.
Jefferson, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound receiver, is in his fourth season out of Florida. So far this season, he has recorded eight catches for 108 yards and no touchdowns. The Rams had been actively seeking a new home for Jefferson, according to a source.
During his time with the Rams, Jefferson has played in 49 games, making 30 starts. His most successful season came in 2021 when the Rams reached the Super Bowl. He started every game that season and achieved career highs in targets (89), catches (50), yards (802), and touchdowns (six).
However, Jefferson has struggled to secure a significant role this season due to the emergence of rookie star Puka Nacua and third-year receiver Tutu Atwell. In the Rams’ recent loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Jefferson was only on the field for two offensive plays as Cooper Kupp returned from injured reserve.
Joining the Atlanta Falcons, Jefferson will be part of a receiving corps led by Drake London, the team’s first-round pick in 2022, and Mack Hollins, who signed a one-year contract with Atlanta during the offseason. This addition provides another offensive option for second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder, who is coming off an impressive performance where he completed 75.7% of his passes for 329 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions.
The trade for Jefferson is a low-risk, potentially high-reward move for the Falcons. It is reminiscent of their trade with the New England Patriots for tight end Jonnu Smith earlier this year. Smith has since become a key contributor to the Falcons’ offense, leading the team in receiving yards (246) and tying with Bijan Robinson for the team lead in receptions (21).
In addition to Jefferson, the Falcons also have tight end Kyle Pitts, their 2021 first-round pick, as a receiving target. Jefferson and Pitts were teammates for two seasons at Florida, which could provide some familiarity and chemistry on the field.
This trade demonstrates the Falcons’ commitment to improving their offense and providing their young quarterback with more weapons. With the addition of Jefferson, Atlanta hopes to continue their momentum and build on the success of their recent games.
In conclusion, the Atlanta Falcons have acquired Van Jefferson from the Los Angeles Rams in a trade. Jefferson brings experience and potential to the Falcons’ receiving corps, joining a talented group of receivers led by Drake London and Mack Hollins. This move is a calculated risk for Atlanta, similar to their previous trade for Jonnu Smith, and aims to enhance their offensive capabilities. With this trade, the Falcons are positioning themselves for success as they continue their season.