Did the Rams Make a Mistake Not Re-Signing Demarcus Robinson?

The Los Angeles Rams’ 2023 season was a remarkable turnaround, largely fueled by a resurgent Matthew Stafford and the emergence of rookie sensation Puka Nacua alongside the ever-reliable Cooper Kupp. Yet, as the dust settles on a playoff appearance and attention shifts to the future, a subtle question lingers for some fans: Was it a misstep for the Rams to let wide receiver Demarcus Robinson walk in free agency? Robinson, who joined the Rams midway through the 2022 season and quickly established himself as a dependable, albeit not spectacular, target, ultimately signed with the New York Giants for the 2023 campaign. His departure, at the time, seemed like a minor footnote in a flurry of roster changes, but hindsight often offers a clearer, albeit more complicated, view.

Robinson's brief tenure with the Rams in 2022 saw him become a valuable safety valve for Stafford, particularly after injuries decimated the receiving corps. He finished that season with 17 receptions for 208 yards and four touchdowns in just nine games, showcasing reliable hands and a knack for finding open space. While not a game-breaker, he was a steady presence. When free agency opened, the Rams, facing cap constraints and a desire to retool, opted not to pursue a new deal for Robinson. He subsequently inked a one-year contract with the New York Giants. His production there, 11 receptions for 114 yards, mirrored his role as a depth piece, though his opportunities were limited in a struggling Giants offense.

For the Rams, the 2023 season saw Kupp battle injuries early on, and while Nacua stepped up in historic fashion, the depth behind the top two receivers sometimes felt precarious. Tutu Atwell, while possessing explosive speed, battled inconsistency. Other rotational receivers struggled to consistently make an impact or provide the reliable chain-moving plays that Robinson often delivered. The question isn't whether Robinson would have usurped Nacua or Kupp, which is clearly absurd given their elite production. Instead, it's about the value of a dependable veteran fourth or fifth option, especially in critical situations or when injuries inevitably strike.

Imagine scenarios where Kupp was sidelined, or when the Rams needed a crucial third-down conversion and Nacua was double-teamed. Would Robinson’s presence have provided a more consistent, trusted outlet than some of the alternative options deployed? His modest statistics with the Giants don't scream "missed opportunity," but they also don't tell the full story of the intangible value of a veteran who knows the system and has rapport with the quarterback. The Rams' offensive success was undeniable, but it was often top-heavy, relying heavily on Kupp and Nacua. A player like Robinson could have offered a low-cost insurance policy and a steadying influence, particularly during stretches of offensive stagnation or when Stafford needed a quick, reliable read.