McVay Says Rams Will Wait on Trade Deadline Despite Injury Crisis
The Los Angeles head coach says the team will hold off on deals until key players return from injury, even as Seattle and San Francisco made major moves.
By Chiara Saeed ·
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay indicated on Wednesday that his team will not make a major acquisition before the NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10. He cited the expected return of injured starters as the primary reason for the wait-and-see approach.
The decision comes one day after the NFC West saw two significant transactions. The Seattle Seahawks acquired six-time All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson in exchange for two draft picks. Later that same day, the San Francisco 49ers signed Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner for a fourth-round pick.
The Rams have dealt with a high volume of injuries this season. Ten players are currently on injured reserve, and offensive lineman Keagen Trost has already been activated from that list. The absences have affected key contributors across both sides of the ball.
Two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett has not practiced or played since Week 1 following knee surgery. All-Pro receiver Davante Adams is recovering from hamstring surgery. Defensive tackle Kobie Turner is out with a groin injury, and tight end Terrance Ferguson has missed games since Week 3 due to an injury.
Wide receiver Puka Nacua, cornerback Trent McDuffie, and linebacker Nate Landman have also missed time this year. Landman and McDuffie both returned to practice this week. Landman was a full participant in Thursday's session, while McDuffie was limited.
Defensive coordinator Chris Shula called Landman a great presence and a leader on the defense. McVay said the value for the team lies in getting these specific players back within a month. He noted that the situation would look different if the missing players were done for the season, but the team expects the key contributors to return.
Center Coleman Shelton sat out Thursday's practice for the second straight day with a hip injury. If he does not play Sunday against the 0-6 Chargers, offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase said Dylan McMahon will start. Scheelhaase praised McMahon's development and noted that Shelton is a tone-setter for the offensive line.
Source: Inland Valley Daily Bulletin
