Rams Cornerback Out for Season
Jaylen Watson undergoes shoulder surgery while the Los Angeles team prepares for a trip to Washington with three starting defensive backs missing.
By Connor Murphy ·
Los Angeles Rams starting cornerback Jaylen Watson will miss the remainder of the season following shoulder surgery, according to head coach Sean McVay. The announcement came on Wednesday, placing the two-time Super Bowl champion on injured reserve. Watson’s injury occurred during the team’s 24-9 victory over the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.
The Rams acquired Watson and Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs in March to form their starting corner coverage. Watson signed a three-year contract worth $51 million as a free agent. He played in seven games this season, recording 24 tackles, one interception, and nine passes defensed before his current injury sidelined him. A previous shoulder dislocation caused him to miss a game earlier in the year.
McVay described the news as a blow to the roster. "He’s been such a stud for us," McVay said. The coach noted that Watson wanted to play through the pain but accepted the medical recommendation for surgery. McVay added that the team will be better when Watson returns next year.
The Rams face a depleted defensive backfield as they prepare to travel to Washington to face the Commanders on Sunday. Safety Kam Curl missed Wednesday’s practice with a foot injury. McDuffie also skipped practice after suffering a back injury against the Chargers, though he expressed confidence on Monday that he would play. Josh Wallace and Emmanuel Forbes are expected to step in for Watson.
Offensive and defensive personnel showed mixed availability during the same practice session. Defensive end Myles Garrett returned to practice for the first time since his debut in Australia two months ago. Garrett missed seven games after knee surgery and took half of the reps on Wednesday. McVay said the team will decide if Garrett plays at Washington later in the week. Tight end Terrance Ferguson returned after missing five games with an ankle injury, while Colby Parkinson remains out with a rib injury.
Other roster updates include starting guard Steve Avila and receiver Jordan Whittington, both of whom were limited in practice due to hamstring and back issues, respectively. Long snapper Joe Cardona may miss a second consecutive game with an ankle injury. Running back Ronnie Rivers returned to practice after missing six weeks with a calf injury, a absence that contributed to recent special teams struggles.
