Reinforcements are on the way for the short-handed Los Angeles Rams. While Jared Goff’s status is still uncertain for the wild-card round, and Darrell Henderson remains on injured reserve, Andrew Whitworth is nearing his return.
Sean McVay shared an update on Whitworth’s status ahead of Saturday’s playoff game against the Seahawks, and said “I think there’s a good chance” that he’ll be able to play this week. Whitworth has been out since injuring his knee in Week 10, coincidentally against the Seahawks.
The timing is ideal not only because the playoffs are beginning, but also because Joe Noteboom is battling a back injury. Noteboom is still expected to be available on Saturday, but he would’ve been limited Tuesday had the Rams held a normal practice.
Rams LT Joe Noteboom would have been limited in practice today with a back problem, Sean McVay says. It isn't expected to keep Noteboom from playing Saturday, but it's another reason to hope Andrew Whitworth feels good this week.
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) January 5, 2021
Whitworth was playing at a Pro Bowl level before getting hurt. Noteboom has stepped up in a big way, but Whitworth is a former All-Pro who elevates the entire offensive line when he’s on the field, both as a pass protector and a blocker.
Assuming Whitworth returns on Saturday, Noteboom would likely be relegated to a swing tackle role, with David Edwards sticking at left guard – Noteboom’s original position this year before he got hurt himself.
