The Los Angeles Rams might have yet another weapon at tight end. Mark Redman’s three-catch, 47-yard day should’ve been the major topic for discussion, except rookie Max Klare put up seven receptions for 37 yards on eight targets. Klare became an instant safety valve for quarterback Ty Simpson, but what he showed in Kansas City was what could and should be the first steps in a long career for the franchise. Simpson wasn’t the only rookie who played well against the Chiefs. Klare shined, too.
Yes, it was one game, but the playmaker from Ohio State displayed the same type of play and value that makes Tyler Higbee the franchise’s greatest tight end of all time. He can pick up easy yards around the line of scrimmage and has near-perfect execution on short-yardage plays, which plays well considering Matthew Stafford’s tendency to sling the football to the spot he feels is most advantageous.
Klare has the fundamentals, the foundation, and the overall ability to play every tight end role in an offense that is revolutionizing the position’s usage. Klare was the ultimate winner on Saturday in his debut.
Not only did he have a standout performance, but he took the first major step towards taking over the TE1 role next season. Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen are set to be free agents after the season, while Tyler Higbee has two more years on what is likely the last contract of his career.
Terrance Ferguson has taken massive strides, but his usage will likely fluctuate between tight end and receiver. Klare could slide in with ease. In the Rams’ offense, tight ends often become the option Stafford turns to when Puka Nacua and Davante Adams are covered, and for a room that put up 17 touchdowns last season, Klare could be the best product yet.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Another Rams rookie besides Simpson quietly had strong debut vs. Chiefs
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brock Vierra, Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
