The St. Louis Rams, who currently sit at four wins and four losses, are an abysmal 23.8 percent on converting third downs.  This ranks them last in the NFL.  Even with a superstar running back in Todd Gurley and a rising playmaker in Tavon Austin, the Rams offense can’t get it done on third down.  Receivers Kenny Britt, Brian Quick, and Stedman Bailey along with tight end Jared Cook are just not making enough plays for signal caller Nick Foles.  With Bailey now serving his second four-game suspension of the year for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, the Rams needed someone to make plays for Foles and take the pressure off of Gurley and Austin.  They may have found that guy.

Wes Welker, the eleven-year veteran, was a free agent just a few days ago looking for a place to call home.  Now he is a St. Louis Ram.  Welker has had a great NFL career amassing nearly 900 receptions, five 1,000+ yard receiving seasons, and winning three Super Bowls.  He doesn’t, however, come without any baggage.  Welker has a history of concussions; he’s missed serious time the past few years with head injuries and big hits have seemed to derail his great career.  This was why he hasn’t played this year; no team was willing to give him a chance, until now.  Welker is something the Rams don’t have.  He is a clear cut possession receiver who can work in the slot and move the chains on third downs with his abnormal quickness.  He also is a great leader and figure in the locker room.  He is an experienced receiver who has been around and won which is something else the Rams don’t have.

Hopefully Welker can reestablish his pro-bowl form and help the Rams rise in the ranks in third-down efficiency.  To do this he must stay healthy and on the field.  At the very least, Welker will have a huge impact on the development of the Rams’ young receivers as they look to make a run to the playoffs.