The Los Angeles Rams defeated the Dallas Cowboys, 31-21, in their preseason opener after the teams practiced together leading up to the game.
Joint practices are beneficial because they give players valuable reps in a game-like environment, especially for those who don’t suit up during the preseason. L.A. is one of the teams that doesn’t play starters at all in the preseason, making those joint practices that much more valuable.
The Rams were scheduled to have another joint practice with the Los Angeles Chargers this week ahead of their upcoming preseason matchup on Aug. 16. However, that was canceled due to a plethora of injuries affecting the Chargers.
Rams head coach Sean McVay said the team is trying to organize a last-minute joint practice with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday, via Stu Jackson of TheRams.com:
“Had some good conversations with (Saints head coach) Kellen Moore after our game last night, spoke with him this morning, they’re obviously getting ready to play right now,” McVay said. “And so I am hopeful that we’ll be able to get something coordinated with them on Thursday. It’s looking like that’s more likely than not that we’ll be able to do that. And then I’ll have some more specifics for you guys tomorrow, once we finalize those plans.”
McVay added that if a joint practice is finalized between the Rams and Saints, it would likely take place at a neutral site in Carson to help with travel.
The Saints practice at UC Irvine for training camp, which is where the Rams used to hold their workouts before moving to Loyola Marymount University.
The Saints are heading back south for their upcoming preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Aug. 17, so the Rams would be thrilled if things work out and the teams can practice together.
Coincidentally, the Rams are also scheduled to host the Saints at SoFi Stadium on Nov. 2 as part of the NFL Week 9 schedule.
Matthew Stafford misses Rams practice on Monday
The Los Angeles Rams have been without Matthew Stafford since the start of training camp due to an aggravated disk in his back.
The veteran quarterback received an epidural to treat the pain and also hasn’t practiced as the team tries to manage his workload.
That was set to change on Monday, but Stafford remained sidelined as his Rams teammates took part in team drills.
Rams head coach Sean McVay revealed that Stafford wasn’t feeling great, so they will continue to be cautious until he is 100%.
