With the first week of preseason underway, teams are starting to get their rosters in order. The St. Louis Rams released their first unofficial depth chart on Monday, and it features Tavon Austin and Kenny Britt as the starters.
Tavon Austin, Kenny Britt listed as Rams starters; could revive fantasy value
Austin and Britt are both coming off disappointing seasons, but the Rams’ first depth chart indicates they’ll get plenty of chances as the starting receivers. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Here’s the complete chart, via Turf Show Times:
Rams unofficial depth chart for the offense pic.twitter.com/XHVG4TNeFL
— TurfShowTimes (@TurfShowTimes) August 4, 2014 Austin was the No. 8 overall pick last year, but he had a rough rookie season, struggling to adjust to the NFL and dropping too many passes. Austin finished with 40 catches for 418 yards and four touchdowns while managing only 10.5 yards per catch, far below what anybody expected out of the speedster.
Britt is new to the team after falling out of favor with the Tennessee Titans. He had only 11 catches for 96 yards in 2013, but he's now reunited with old coach Jeff Fisher and training camp reports have been positive.
Fantasy impact: Brian Quick has been operating as one of the starters alongisde Britt, with Austin playing in the slot. This first depth chart suggests that Austin might see more playing time in the club's preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints on Friday.
Both players have lots of talent but haven't put it all together yet. If Austin gets more comfortable with the playbook and Britt rediscovers his 2011 form, the Rams might have a dynamic duo on their hands. Of course, this could all be moot if Sam Bradford can't stay healthy or show more consistency.
At this time, Austin’s ADP is in the ninth round and Britt is going in the 14th. Both players remain high-risk, high-reward options.
