The Los Angeles Rams went into organized team activities with a notable shortage of edge rushers. Unfortunately, the group got a little bit thinner this past week.
Outside linebacker Morgan Fox was hoping to take on an increased role in the Rams’ newly-revamped defense. However, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, he has suffered a torn ACL and will be out for the 2018 NFL season:
#Rams DE Morgan Fox tore his ACL today, source said. Played all 16 games last year, had 2.5 sacks. Another brutal May injury.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 25, 2018
The news undoubtedly deals a blow to Los Angeles who had already been dealing with a thin group of linebackers. Fox was one of the few players left who managed to get some quality time in last season.
Despite his limited playing time, the former undrafted free agent flashed his big-play ability. He finished the 2017 campaign with 19 tackles, 2.5 sacks, one safety and a forced fumble. His versatile skill set would have made him a viable option at a number of position in the defense. In fact, early reports suggested that Fox had been running with the starters up until the injury.
This is not the first time the group has been hit with an injury. Rookie outside linebacker recently had to go undergo foot surgery and is expected to be out until training camp. Although it is not a season-ending diagnosis like in Fox’s case, it is just another hindrance the Rams have had to deal with this offseason.
Unfortunately, such is the nature of an NFL offseason. Although teams do what they can to limit the risk of injury, it is impossible to avoid injuries such as these. That said, Fox’s absence will open the door even wider for the young linebackers on the roster to step up and fill the void.
