The Los Angeles Rams announced a flurry of roster moves on Wednesday, signaling both strategic depth-building and urgent damage control in the secondary. Cornerback Roger McCreary was placed on injured reserve, while the team reclaimed cornerback Derion Kendrick off waivers from the Seahawks. The Rams also activated TE Nick Vannett and designated WR Tutu Atwell and CB Ahkello Witherspoon to return from injured reserve.
McCreary, 25, arrived from the Tennessee Titans via a midseason trade and made his first defensive appearance in LA’s 34-7 victory over Tampa Bay. Unfortunately, a hip injury in that snap has sidelined him once again. “Questionable to return,” McCreary’s early impact was limited to special teams before the injury struck.
Kendrick Returns to Familiar Surroundings
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Derion Kendrick, drafted by the Rams in 2022, has a history with the team that predates his brief stint with the Seahawks. After starting 18 games across his first two seasons in Los Angeles, Kendrick missed all of 2024 due to a knee ligament injury. This year, he was waived during the final preseason cuts, joining Seattle and recording two interceptions in 10 games before returning to Los Angeles.
Kendrick’s familiarity with Rams defensive schemes and versatility—able to play outside or in the slot—provides an immediate option to plug into rotations amid a series of injuries.
Secondary Resilience Amid Injuries
The Rams’ cornerback room has already weathered significant absences. Veteran Ahkello Witherspoon missed most of the season after breaking his collarbone in Week 2, while Quentin Lake and Darious Williams have dealt with early-season injuries. Despite these challenges, the secondary has performed admirably. Cobie Durant and Emmanuel Forbes both recorded interceptions against Tampa Bay, while Williams has returned to full strength.
Sean McVay and the coaching staff now face the task of integrating Kendrick and navigating McCreary’s recovery while maintaining coverage consistency. General manager Les Snead made the McCreary acquisition with playoff depth in mind, but injuries continue to test the Rams’ roster flexibility.
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Looking Ahead To Witherspoon’s Return
With McCreary sidelined, Los Angeles will lean on existing contributors such as Cobie Durant, Emmanuel Forbes, Darious Williams, and the newly returning Witherspoon. The Rams’ secondary remains a focal point as the NFC-leading team (9-2) approaches a critical stretch of the season.
The hope is that McCreary’s hip injury proves temporary. Until then, the defensive backfield will continue to rely on both veteran savvy and youthful depth to navigate the challenges of a playoff push.
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