Steven Jackson is gone, a bunch of talented young receivers are in. Change is coming to the Rams offense, and Sam Bradford in particular could be a beneficiary.
This link has news and notes from a recent practice, including rookie receiver Tavon Austin taking some handoffs (Austin once ran for 344 yards in a college game) and an early rapport between Bradford and new tight end Jared Cook. Chris Givens, Austin Pettis and rookie Stedman Bailey are among the receivers making plays.
Another recent article has Bradford talking about his plans to shoulder more of the offensive burden this season. Considering the Rams' unknown group of running backs competing for carries, he'll probably have to.
It all sounds good in the preseason, of course. Just as possible that none of the runners is suited to carry a leading role, and Bradford is forced to pass more than anyone likes -- and the whole thing goes south. Youth in a receiving corps is only good if a couple of those players are ready to step up as go-to players.
Things will be better if there's a running game. Whether it's led by Zac Stacy, Isaiah Pead or Daryl Richardson will be one of the preseason's major storylines.
--Andy Richardson