Exclusive | Rams receiver opens up about Davante Adams injury, stepping into spotlight
LAS VEGAS — Konata Mumpfield has spent the season learning from two of the NFL’s most dangerous wide receivers.Now, with the Los Angeles Rams’ season teetering on the brink, the young receiver is being asked to put those lessons to work.And Mumpfield’s opportunity comes at a heartbreaking price. With superstar receiver Davante Adams sidelined for six to 10 weeks after rupturing his hamstring, and All-Pro Puka Nacua battling lingering calf and groin injuries, Mumpfield suddenly finds himself thrust into a starring role for a Rams offense desperately searching for answers.But for Mumpfield, losing Adams is about much more than football.“With Tae [Davante Adams] going down, it crushes me because I know how much it means to him,” Mumpfield told The California Post in an exclusive interview.
“He’s a big brother and mentor to me.”Adams has spent the season taking Mumpfield under his wing, teaching him the finer details of route running, recognizing defensive coverages and identifying the subtle tells that separate good receivers from great ones.“I’ve learned a lot from those guys.I appreciate the heck out of them,” Mumpfield said.
“They speak life into me all the time, just saying what they believe I can do and what I’m capable of.”From Nacua, the lesson has been considerably less complicated.The All-pro receiver has taught Mumpfield about being more physical after catching the football.
How you can make opposing defenders pay for trying to tackle you. “I just kind of try to model my mindset after him,” Mumpfield said.“When I catch the ball, make them tackle me.”That physical mentality could prove invaluable Sunday against a Raiders defense that has struggled to limit yards after the catch.Mumpfield flashed his potential earlier this season against Denver, but with the Rams sitting at 2-4 and buried in last place in the NFC West, occasional flashes won’t be enough anymore.Matthew Stafford needs dependable targets.
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