Jordan Whittington joined the Los Angeles Rams as a sixth-round afterthought in 2024, but he quickly proved he belonged.
The former Texas Longhorn flashed his potential by making clutch plays whenever his number was called.
Now, after an impactful rookie campaign and a strong spring showing, the versatile wide receiver is positioning himself for a more prominent role in Sean McVay’s offense. With the Rams’ receiving corps undergoing major changes, the stage is set for Whittington to take on more responsibility in the year ahead.
Jordan Whittington Flashing Potential As A Rookie For Los Angeles Rams
Whittington’s raw numbers from 2024 don’t jump off the page: 22 catches for 293 yards and no touchdowns in 15 games, but the context tells a different story. Injuries to veterans early in the season thrust him into meaningful snaps, and he responded with surprising production.
By Week 5, he was tied for second on the team in receptions and second in receiving yards, stepping up while Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua were sidelined.
Against Green Bay, he posted a career-high seven catches for 89 yards, including a 31-yard grab that showcased his route savvy and reliable hands.
Even as the veterans returned, Whittington stayed involved. Though a midseason shoulder injury slowed him, he finished the year strong.
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In the season finale against Seattle, he caught three passes for 86 yards, including a 50-yard catch-and-run from backup QB Jimmy Garoppolo, showing off his burst and toughness.
His value wasn’t limited to offense. Midway through the season, the Rams handed him kick return duties. He responded with 453 yards on 16 returns, averaging 28.3 yards per attempt – the best among NFL rookies.
That performance earned him PFWA All-Rookie honors as a return specialist. McVay summed it up simply: Whittington was “creating value wherever we put him.”
In the playoffs, he made his lone catch count, a 12-yard reception over the middle in Philadelphia that converted a key first down. It was the kind of play that doesn’t show up on highlight reels but earns trust from coaches. Whether lining up wide, in the slot, or motioning through the backfield, Whittington showed the flexibility and physicality that McVay demands from his receivers.
A New-Look Receiver Room In 2025
The Rams’ wideout room looks completely different heading into 2025. Kupp, Demarcus Robinson, and Tyler Johnson are all gone. In their place, the Rams signed All-Pro Davante Adams, who now pairs with Nacua and Tutu Atwell as the expected starters.
It’s a talented group, but also one light on slot experience and chemistry with Matthew Stafford. That’s where Whittington could step in. With all the departures, there’s a 40% loss of target share, and although Adams is likely to take up some, there’s a piece of that pie for Jordan Whittington.
With Kupp’s departure, the Rams lose their primary slot option and Stafford’s most trusted third-down target. Whittington, who caught 78.5% of his targets last year, offers a physical 6-foot-1 frame and is comfortable working inside. He was used in short-yardage spots as a “power slot” and also has a background as a collegiate running back, giving McVay another chess piece to move around in motion-heavy looks.
The coaching staff hasn’t been shy about their belief in him. His per-target efficiency was among the best on the team, and the front office sees room to grow.
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If Adams or Nacua miss time, Whittington could quickly find himself starting. Unfortunately, due to both of their injury history, it’s likely that both will miss some combination of games.
Even if he begins as WR4, expect packages designed to get him touches, especially in four-wide sets or red zone concepts.
Earning Sean McVay’s Trust
The most telling sign of Whittington’s trajectory came during OTA practices in May. With Nacua excused and Kupp no longer in the picture, Whittington seized the extra first-team reps and made the most of them.
“You can see his accumulation of experience has led to a confidence, ability to be able to fill in when needed,” McVay said after practice. “Thought he had a really good day today, you can see he’s just got a real comfort level in terms of what’s being asked, what’s the intent of some of these plays, what are the route nuances and where do I fit within these concepts, and so I’ve just been really proud of the progress, the maturity.”
His kick return role is also expected to continue. Special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn loved what he brought as a returner last season, and his elite average helped swing field position multiple times. If his offensive snap count increases, the Rams will need to manage his load, but that’s a good problem to have.
One year after being drafted 213th overall, Whittington has gone from an afterthought to a key piece in the Rams’ plans. He’s shown flashes as a reliable underneath target and an open-field threat. He’s embraced the gritty, all-purpose role McVay covets. And he’s done it with poise and consistency.
Thoughts on a Whittington breakout this season, Ramily? Comment below.
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