The Los Angeles Rams will be without cornerback Darious Williams for their Week 9 matchup against the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Williams, dealing with a shoulder injury, was officially ruled out after head coach Sean McVay indicated it was “more likely than not” he wouldn’t be able to play.
The team then released its list of inactive players, and Williams was among those.
McVay stressed that the injury isn’t expected to require placement on Injured Reserve, and Williams should be ready for next week’s road game against the 49ers. “It looks like something that, if he’s not able to make it, then I would expect next week for him to be back ready to roll,” McVay said Friday.
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Rams Adjust Roster
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The team is taking a cautious approach with Williams, describing the injury as “abnormal,” and plans to elevate a player from the practice squad to fill the vacancy. “He’s done a great job being able to get some individual [work],” McVay said. “The lat’s bothering him a little bit, and it’s more likely than not that he won’t be able to play. But you do have confidence in the guys that we’re going to be able to ask to step up.”
Aside from Williams, the Rams will welcome back wide receiver Puka Nacua and right tackle Rob Havenstein, while newly acquired cornerback Roger McCreary is expected to make his team debut.
Challenging Matchup Ahead
Williams’ absence comes as the Rams face a unique challenge in rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, making his first NFL start for the Saints. Shough replaced Spencer Rattler in Week 8 and completed 17 of 30 passes for 128 yards. The Saints also have a few question marks, with Alvin Kamara, Rashid Shaheed, and Alontae Taylor listed as questionable for Sunday.
While missing a veteran cornerback is a setback, McVay remains confident in his team’s depth and ability to adjust. Williams’ leadership and playmaking will be missed, but Rams defenders and backups are expected to step up against New Orleans’ inexperienced quarterback.
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