The Los Angeles Rams’ talented wide receiver room includes rookie Jordan Whittington, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas.
Whittington appeared in 15 games for the Rams this season (three starts), recording 22 catches, 293 yards and no touchdowns. He also saw snaps on special teams and at fullback.
Although he didn’t find the end zone, Whittington was still a valuable contributor and seemingly improved as the year went on.
The 24-year-old credited Cooper Kupp for helping him grow as a football player, via Wyatt Miller of TheRams.com:
“Just learning from Cooper (about) all the intentionality on the football field and the receiver position in general,” Whittington said. “He taught me a lot, so just more about using your brain and thinking about everything, why you’re running the routes, why you’re diagnosing coverages and stuff like that. So I think just everything on the mental side, I grew a lot.”
Whittington tried to follow Kupp’s example on the field and listened closely whenever he talked to other players:
“Listening to every word he says (helps),” Whittington said of Kupp. “Even if i’m not talking to him, I’m listening to him talk to (quarterback) Matthew (Stafford), talk to (wide receiver) Puka (Nacua) so i’m just trying to be like a little fly, just flying around listening to everything, you can pick up a lot of stuff.”
Kupp has been with the Rams for eight seasons and is one of the most respected leaders in the locker room. He has an excellent work ethic, which is something that the younger players try to emulate.
However, Kupp recently revealed that the organization’s plans to trade him this offseason, so his tenure with the Rams appears to be coming to an end.
Kupp, who will be 32 next season, confirmed that he is planning to play in 2025. He has two years remaining on his contract, with $5 million guaranteed in 2025. If the Rams can’t trade him and cut him this offseason, they will save about $7.52 million against the salary cap.
Demarcus Robinson hopes to re-sign with Rams in free agency
Demarcus Robinson was another important wide receiver for the Rams this season and he is now set to reach free agency.
The 30-year-old made it clear that he wants to return to the team after catching 31 passes for 505 yards and a team-high seven receiving touchdowns.
With Kupp and potentially Robinson gone, there could be a solid role for Whittington in his sophomore season.
