The Los Angeles Rams are off to a good start to the 2021 season after picking up their second victory in Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts.
It was a decent showing for the Rams in their first road game of the year as the defense was able to make crucial red-zone stops while Matthew Stafford was able to find Cooper Kupp on several explosive plays that put them up in the second half. Despite the win, Los Angeles did not avoid injury as running back Darrell Henderson was unable to finish after suffering an apparent chest injury.
On Monday it was discovered that Henderson suffered a rib cartilage injury and head coach Sean McVay noted that there is a chance the running back is able to suit up in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, via Stu Jackson of TheRams.com:
Rams head coach Sean McVay on Monday said running back Darrell Henderson Jr. is dealing with a rib cartilage injury.
McVay is “hopeful and optimistic” they will get Henderson back in time for Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers (1:25 p.m. pacific time, FOX) but will monitor him throughout the week. The Rams will “be smart” with Henderson during the early parts of the week, then see how Henderson feels on Friday.
“We want to give him as much time as possible to get as healthy as possible,” McVay said. “This is something that if the pain subsides, then we will be confident to be able to utilize him.”
Even if Henderson is able to go, McVay acknowledged that Sony Michel and Jake Funk are expected to see more work:
Regardless of Henderson’s status for Sunday, McVay also said “you can definitely expect to see Sony (Michel) and Jake (Funk) possibility utilized more this week.”
Running back depth has been a major concern for the Rams after losing Cam Akers, Xavier Jones and Raymond Calais to injury and if Henderson is unable to play then the offense will be in some trouble.
Normally, players are able to play through a rib cartilage injury, but it remains to be seen whether or not Henderson will be able to bear that type of pain and discomfort. For now, it is wise to expect Michel to handle the bulk of the carries, with Funk mixing in as the change-of-pace back.
That may not be the worst thing for the Rams as Michel looked solid taking over for Henderson against the Colts and he should only get better as he continues to pick up the playbook.
