Another week, another piece of significant injury news for the Rams. Free agency pickup Jaylen Watson will not return this season. Sean McVay said (via the Los Angeles Times’ Gary Klein) veteran cornerback will undergo shoulder surgery.
The Rams gave Watson a three-year, $51MM contract in free agency, reuniting him with four-year Chiefs teammate Trent McDuffie. Watson has been a much shakier bet than McDuffie this season, missing time previously. The former McDuffie Kansas City sidekick will be out of the picture for the Rams until 2027.
Watson’s competitive FA market gave him contract protection; his 2027 compensation is guaranteed. But this removes a key piece from a Rams puzzle that has not come together this season. Watson joins Davante Adams, Myles Garrett and Kobie Turner on IR. Garrett, however, is practicing today after being designated for return. As the Rams’ pass rush moves closer to full strength, they will need answers in coverage.
More to come.