The Facts: The Rams gave up a solid cornerback, E.J. Gaines, and a 2018 second-round pick in order to pluck Watkins from the Bills last summer. ESPN.com's Alden Gonzalez believes it might be in their best interest to employ Watkins for at least another year.
Diehards Line:
Watkins' 2017 numbers -- 39 catches for 593 yards and eight touchdowns -- weren't gaudy, but he stayed healthy, and his presence as a vertical threat helped open the middle of the field for Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. A full offseason could do wonders for Watkins' chemistry with Jared Goff, which is why the franchise tag seems like an ideal option. It gives him another chance in Sean McVay's offense without the risk of a long-term commitment for a receiver with a history of injuries. The Rams are projected to have more than $40 million in salary cap space, and it could be more if they cut ties with some potential cap casualties. They can afford to give Watkins another one-year tryout.