The Los Angeles Rams have confirmed that veteran tight end Tyler Higbee and right tackle Rob Havenstein will remain on injured reserve for their Week 17 “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Head coach Sean McVay announced Monday that both players are still recovering and not yet ready for game action.
“They still need some time,” McVay said, adding that the Rams are prioritizing long-term health over rushing either player back for a short week. Havenstein has been sidelined with ankle and knee bursitis, while Higbee continues to rehab an ankle injury. Neither has played since Week 11, forcing LA to rely on backups Warren McClendon Jr. at right tackle and Colby Parkinson at tight end.
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Offensive Impact of Missing Higbee and Havenstein
The 2025 season has offered a unique lens into how their offense performs with varying combinations of Higbee and Havenstein. The data suggests that while raw production can remain high without them, overall effectiveness and winning outcomes are affected.
Key Insights:
- Counterintuitive Production: The Rams generate the most total yards (466.3 per game) and highest EPA per play (0.194) when neither Higbee nor Havenstein is active.
- Win-Loss Impact: Despite higher yardage and points, the team wins only 50% of games without both, compared to 85.7% when both are active. This highlights the importance of experience, game management, and consistency.
- Passing & Rushing: Passing yards and yards per attempt are highest without the two veterans (335.2 yards/game, 8.8 YPA), while the rushing attack also benefits slightly (5.2 yards/carry).
- Protection Adjustments: Surprisingly, the offensive line allows the least pressure when missing Havenstein and Higbee (24.1% pressure rate), suggesting effective scheme adjustments by the coaching staff.
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Coaching and Depth Mitigate Some Losses
Backup tight ends and reserve offensive linemen have performed admirably in the absence of Higbee and Havenstein. Colby Parkinson has stepped up at tight end, and Warren McClendon Jr. has held the right tackle spot effectively. The Rams have implemented quick-pass concepts and adjusted blocking schemes to limit pressure on quarterback Matthew Stafford.
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Conclusion
While the Rams offense can produce yards and points without Tyler Higbee and Rob Havenstein, the team’s win percentage suffers. The data shows that having both players active provides a more balanced, reliable approach to success. By keeping them on IR for Week 17, LA is prioritizing their long-term health and postseason readiness, relying on depth and coaching to maintain offensive efficiency until these key contributors return.