The LA Rams are gearing up for the final three games of the season, and they have a tough task ahead. This is not a ‘we’re done’ moment for the current roster. The Rams are looking to bring back veteran tight end Tyler Higbee, but it’s uncertain when he will return. I believe he will be on the field in Week 16 against the New York Jets.
However, Higbee isn’t the only player eager to transition from the sidelines to playing time. Versatile and productive defensive back Cobie Durant is also hoping to join his teammates in Week 16, though it remains uncertain if that will happen. Notably, the Rams’ secondary had one of their best performances of the season in Week 15, while Durant was out due to a bruised lung.
The rest of the Rams secondary rose to the occasion during his absence.
That said, the Rams roster may face some unexpected changes again. Durant only needs to update his gameday status, but bringing Higbee back will require the team to create an open roster spot, which can be quite challenging at this time of year.
Sean McVay mentioned that they’re uncertain about Higbee’s return this week, and he’s also evaluating whether CB Emmanuel Forbes will make his Rams debut.
While Higbee’s return is possible, the team doesn’t want to rush him back.
Sean McVay said "we'll see" whether TE Tyler Higbee returns this week, and whether CB Emmanuel Forbes makes his Rams debut this week.
Higbee return possible, but don't want to rush him.
McVay mentioned Cobie Durant's status could "definitely" impact Forbes'. Durant got a lung…
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) December 9, 2024
Let’s be clear. Cobie Curant is very effective at pass coverage, perhaps the best there is on the Rams roster. And he proved it in Week 14 as his teammates were shredded by the Buffalo Bills and QB Josh Allen:
On Sunday against the @BuffaloBills, @RamsNFL CB Cobie Durant was targeted seven times. Six targets were from Josh Allen to Amari Cooper. The overall result? Two catches for 15 yards. pic.twitter.com/UtJR4BpjS9
— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) December 10, 2024
The Rams secondary was outstanding against the San Francisco 49ers, shutting them down impressively and appearing deceptively strong. As Cobie Durant prepares to return, the question is whether the same group of defensive backs can maintain that high level of performance. While he may not be back for Week 16, it’s likely Durant will return in Week 17 when the Rams take on the Arizona Cardinals in a crucial matchup for the top spot in the NFC West.
Regarding making space for Tyler Higbee, it seems that a sudden injury to backup OLB Nick Hampton will effectively end his season, sending him to injured reserve and creating an open roster slot for Higbee right now.
Sean McVay said OLB Nick Hampton tore his pec against the 49ers and will require season-ending surgery
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) December 13, 2024
Will the Rams make the moves now?
With three games remaining on the schedule and the Rams on the road to face the pesky New York Jets this week, I expect if either or both Higbee and Durant are ready to go, they will be playing. The Rams are running out of time, and that means every week is all hands on deck until this season is over.
With any luck, and a lot of work, it will be enough to secure the ninth win of the season.
As always, thanks for reading.
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