Joseph Noteboom was drafted two years ago to potentially be the heir to Andrew Whitworth’s throne at left tackle. That changing of the guard was delayed a year when Whitworth returned for another season in 2019, opening the door for Noteboom to take over at left guard.
His first season as a starter was cut short due to injury, though, as Noteboom was lost for the year after just six games. He tore his ACL in Week 6 and was placed on IR, the first of many blows to the Rams’ offensive line.
Noteboom is expected to be ready for the 2020 season, and this week, he provided an update in an interview with Sarina Morales of the Rams’ site.
“I think we’re about eight weeks from surgery. Haven’t started running yet or anything like that, just trying to get the quad strength up and figure out walking. I think in about four weeks we start jogging and stuff like that on the field,” Noteboom said when asked about his knee.
As a result of his knee injury, Noteboom isn’t taking his health or availability for granted. He always knew the importance of eating right and working out, but now he realizes it even more.
“I’ve never really taken walking for granted, but now I do,” he said. “Health and eating well and getting your body right. I’ve always thought it was important, but now [even more]. I never want to get hurt again, because this sucks.”
Noteboom’s immediate role with the Rams is still to be determined. He could remain at left guard, but if Whitworth retires or leaves in free agency, he could slide back over to left tackle, which is where he played in college.
Whitworth’s decision will play a big role in Noteboom’s future, because if he comes back, the young O-lineman will remain inside at guard for at least one more year.
