Gerald Everett, Tight End
Last year was disappointing for the former second-round selection. Totaling only 16 receptions for 244 yards, Gerald Everett clearly lacked the effectiveness he was hoping for.
Part of that was the role he held within the offense, oftentimes riding the bench and splitting the starting role. However, he was not purely a result of circumstance. The blocking ability he showed at South Alabama was not nearly as consistent during his rookie campaign. If running back Todd Gurley and the rest of that Rams offense want to improve, his blocking will have to do the same.
On the other hand, there was a reason Everett was a second-round pick. His athletic profile is moderately impressive and aids his receiving ability. He’s a quality route runner with excellent hands and a knack for getting to the ball in the air. The red-zone possibilities Everett brings are massive, even if he is only 6-foot-3. His blocking ability should improve with another year, and that only adds to his versatility.
He can easily be flexed out wide, placed in the slot, played as an H-Back or even put in-line. The middle of the field will belong to Everett by this time next year.
Why He Is Poised To Break Out
The main factor in his development could very well have nothing to do with him. Outside of his spot on the depth chart, I’m not sure there’s a better spot for Everett. Sean McVay, an elite offensive mind, has been a catalyst for tight end production since he entered the league. Jared Goff took extraordinary strides last year and looks to see continuous improvement.
With the addition of Brandin Cooks, the Rams boast inside-receiving threats who draw attention away from the second-year tight end. In McVay’s system, which has once hosted tight ends Jordan Reed, Vernon Davis and Fred Davis, among others.
McVay is a tight end production wizard, and when his subjects stay healthy, they wreak havoc.