Rams Add Big-Play Potential in Britt
By Tony Softli on April 1st, 2014 @ 2:48pm
http://www.101sports.com/2014/04/01/rams-add-big-play-potential-britt/
On Monday, the St. Louis Rams continued their recent surge in free-agent activity by netting a potential big-play threat at wide receiver: Kenny Britt.
A New Jersey native, Britt became the first Rutgers player to climb into the first round of the NFL draft when the Tennessee Titans made him the 30th overall selection in 2009. His rookie year produced 40-plus receptions and more than 700 yards receiving, as did his sophomore season.
While his numbers and 6-foot-2, 218-pound frame suggested more growth to come, though, Britt’s contributions began to dip in 2011. He missed time due to major knee surgeries and ran afoul of the law. A DUI arrest in Kentucky was followed by charges of eluding an officer and hindering apprehension. Most recently, he tampered with evidence and obstructed a government function during a stop in New Jersey.
Overall, the 25-year-old Britt has been arrested nine times since entering the league. Yet the Rams locked him up for one year and $1.4 million, with a maximum value of $2.9 million. Medical issues aside, Britt’s value is evident in his wide-ranging skill set ability to go vertical.
In choosing to roll the dice on this talented but troubled young man, St. Louis head coach Jeff Fisher and general manager Les Snead are hoping that a change of environment pays off. Britt’s addition also creates further internal competition for a talented receiving corps that includes Chris Givens, Tavon Austin, Stedman Bailey, Brian Quick and Austin Pettis.
The Rams’ options with the No. 2 pick in May’s draft suddenly multiply, too. Does the team pass on star Clemson wideout Sammy Watkins? Will the allure of South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney make the front office stay put, should Houston take a quarterback first? Is an offensive lineman, or trading down, the right move?
For now, it’s a lot of speculation. One thing, however, is certain: Kenny Britt’s arrival deepens the Rams’ deck of cards as they prime themselves for an NFC West run in 2014.
