The Los Angeles Rams have sparked quite a resurgence on offense in recent weeks despite being shorthanded at multiple key positions.
Among the notable absences as of late has been tight end Gerald Everett after picking up a knee injury in Week 13 against the Baltimore Ravens. Unfortunately, he has been unable to take part in the recent turnaround after being sidelined for the last two games.
Although Los Angeles has managed to pick up the slack, they will need as much help as possible if they hope to keep their momentum going the rest of the 2019 NFL season. It seems they are still holding out hope for Everett’s return.
Head coach Sean McVay says Everett is still listed as day-to-day heading into Week 15 against the Dallas Cowboys, via ESPN’s Lindsey Thiry:
Rams TE Gerald Everett is still considered "Day-to-day," Sean McVay said, "His knee is making progress, but not ready to get out there and practice with us yet."
Everett has been "Day-to-day" since suffering the knee injury Week 13. He did not play vs. the Cardinals or Seahawks.
— Lindsey Thiry (@LindseyThiry) December 11, 2019
While it is not the full-fledged recovery Los Angeles was hoping for at this point in the week, McVay’s comments indicate that Everett’s injury is not too severe and he should be nearing a return. Unfortunately, it remains to be seen whether or not it will be on the road in Dallas.
Everett has enjoyed rather modest production in the 2019 campaign outside of a couple of breakout outings as the superior receiving option in the tight end group alongside Tyler Higbee. His absence has left quarterback Jared Goff with one less option to throw to in the passing game.
Fortunately, Higbee has managed to pick up the slack without Everett in the mix by posting back-to-back seven-catch, 100-yard outings for the first time in his career. His receiving prowess combined with his efforts as a blocker in the run game has earned him plenty of praise from coaches and teammates alike.
As a result, the Rams seemingly have the luxury of taking a cautious approach with Everett’s recovery now that Higbee has started to play at such a high level in the expanded role. His skill set as a complete tight end can certainly pay huge dividends for them down the stretch as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Of course, Higbee’s emergence may be motivation enough for Everett to work his way back as soon as possible.
