With the departure of Robert Woods and Odell Beckham Jr. still unsigned, wide receiver Van Jefferson entered training camp with an opportunity for increasing his role in the Rams dynamic offense.
Now, the third-year receiver needs minor knee surgery that will most likely him keep out for the preseason. His availability for Week 1 is not ruled out as the surgery is likely a simple knee scope, according to the Pro Football Docs.
.@Rams head team physician is a very good knee specialist but player seeks opinion of another. Reminder that medicine is both art and science where opinions can differ like GMs may not agree on talent evaluations.
#Rams WR Van Jefferson will see a specialist on Monday for a knee issue that has been plaguing him, source said. Jefferson has been doing maintenance and faces the prospect of missing a few weeks. He’ll have more info following the appointment, including if he needs surgery.
It is not clear what specific knee issue is afflicting Jefferson but if it's articular cartilage damage that can have long term repercussions.
The 26-year-old suffered a left knee strain in Week 8 last season, but did not miss any game time.
Jefferson caught 50 receptions for 802 yards and 6 touchdowns in 17 games last season.
He had an opportunity to carve out a bigger role this preseason, but the knee surgery likely wipes out that chance.
The Rams take on the Bills on September 8 to kick off the season.
