We're now just a week away from Rams rookies reporting to training camp, with veterans reporting two days later on July 25. Our 2018 countdown to camp continues today with a look at Los Angeles' tight ends.
Newcomers: Codey McElroy
If there's one area in particular where Los Angeles is looking for offensive growth in 2018, it's at the tight end position. Though the Rams led the league in scoring last season, the club's tight ends as a whole accounted for just 49 receptions and 610 yards receiving — just 15 percent of the team's total in both categories.
Tyler Higbee led the group with 25 receptions for 295 yards, and caught one touchdown. He's heading into his third season with L.A. after being selected in the fourth round back in the 2016 NFL draft.
Second-year tight end Gerald Everett may see some more playing time in 2018 after entering the league last year as a second-round pick. Everett displayed versatility as a rookie, playing in-line and split out wide as a receding threat. But he also took a tight end jet sweep for 13 yards against the Jaguars. Head coach Sean McVay said he would like to vary personnel groups more in 2018, which would likely give Everett more opportunities if the team elects to use two tight-end sets.
Temarrick Hemingway is also heading into his third year, but training camp will represent his first chance to put on pads in nearly a year. Hemingway suffered a season-ending leg injury during the 2017 preseason matchup with the Chargers, but should be ready to go for training camp. Listed at 6-foot-5, Hemingway's considerable height makes him a solid potential target for quarterback Jared Goff.
Rounding out the group, Johnny Mundt spent the majority of last season on the practice squad and could challenge for a roster spot. Henry Krieger-Coble also spent time on Los Angeles' practice squad in 2017. And L.A. signed former Atlanta Braves minor leaguer Codey McElroy as an undrafted free agent in mid-May.
Previously on Countdown to Camp:
