It’s no secret that injuries derailed the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl defense, but the ailments along the offensive line were ridiculous by any measure.
The Rams were forced to use a different set of offensive linemen nearly every week as the injuries piled up, contributing to more sacks and hits on Matthew Stafford who is likely out for the remainder of the season. One of the key losses for the team was guard David Edwards who has been out due to multiple concussions.
Ahead of their Week 14 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, head coach Sean McVay said Edwards likely won’t return this year, via Stu Jackson of TheRams.com:
Re: Rams LG David Edwards, shutting him down for the season "most likely" the direction they'll go per HC Sean McVay.
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) December 7, 2022
Los Angeles previously designated Edwards to return from injured reserve on Nov. 16 and on the final day of his 21-day window to be activated, it looks like he’ll have to sit out the season. The NFL and its teams have been more cautious with players dealing with concussions, and for Edwards, this is the best move to preserve his career long-term.
With Edwards out, Matt Skura figures to replace him at left guard though he has been mediocre as his replacement. The rest of the o-line has shown some flashes, but it’s clearly a weakness of this team that will need addressing in the offseason.
At this point of the season, McVay should use the last remaining games to evaluate the younger players on the roster with next year in mind. Hopefully their key players including Edwards recover completely and are ready to go for 2023.
