Sammy Watkins' options open in free agent market |
Former Clemson receiver
Sammy Watkins officially hit the free agent market this week, but he may stick around L.A.
The Rams opted to put the franchise tag on safety LaMarcus Joyner and allow Watkins to pursue his options in free agency, but according to a number of reports, they are from out of the race in signing Watkins this offseason. CBS reporter Jason La Canfora says that the Rams are “hopeful” of a contract with Watkins, while NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports they “will be aggressive in trying to” sign him. Per ESPN, Watkins is “open to returning to the LA Rams but also anticipates a very strong market.” Sports Illustrated adds a return to the Rams may be his best option. “Watkins’ best option might be signing a high-end, one-year deal similar to those signed by Alshon Jeffery or Terrelle Pryor during last year’s free agency,” SI’s Conor Orr writes. “And really, the best place for him to end up might be back in Los Angeles playing for an explosive offensive mind like Sean McVay.” Watkins is rated as the No. 5 free agent in the league by NFL.com behind QBs Kirk Cousins and Drew Brees, receiver Allen Robinson and defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson. “Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay largely blamed himself for Watkins' poor production (593 receiving yards) in 2017,” NFL.com’s Gregg Rosenthal writes. “McVay said the team could have done a better job scheming plays for the former Bills top-five pick, noted the coverage Watkins drew and felt it was difficult for him to join the Rams with so little time before the season. McVay made a point of expressing that Watkins played a key role in the larger L.A. passing game.” Watkins finished last season with a career-high eight touchdown receptions with his third-most targets (70). Other potential teams with interest could include San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, Oakland, Carolina, Houston, Indianapolis and Washington.
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