Although the Los Angeles Rams have kicked off organized team activities, there is one notable face missing in the form of strength and conditioning coach Ted Rath.
With OTAs in full swing, the Rams primary concern at the moment is making sure everyone gets up to speed by the time training camp rolls around. This is usually the time of year where trainers seem to be at their busiest with players looking to get in tip-top shape heading into the 2019 NFL season.
Rath is currently unable to join the team after he was arrested and charged with three counts of misdemeanor sexual battery in January. He was subsequently placed on leave and now the Rams seem to be taking a wait-and-see approach at this time.
According to Blake Richardson of the Los Angeles Times, head coach Sean McVay says he is still on leave after being scheduled to appear in court on May 31:
McVay said Ted Rath, the Rams’ director of strength training and performance, is still on leave pending a May 31 court date. Rath has been on leave since mid-January after being charged with three counts of misdemeanor sexual battery. Rath has pleaded not guilty.
Rath has been on leave from his position ever since he was charged in January. With nothing set in stone, the update from McVay should come as no surprise.
The Rams enjoyed plenty of success in the 2018 NFL season after making a trip to Super Bowl 53. Even Rath had made headlines as McVay’s unofficial get-back coach, a task he was charged with that involves keeping the passionate coach on the sidelines and out of the way of game officials.
Aside from his duties on the field, Rath was also recognized in his primary vocation. He was named the Strength Coach of the Year after helping the Rams finish the 2017 campaign as the healthiest team in football.
He is now facing some rather serious charges following an alleged incident in June 2018 that took place at a private residence in Moorpark. Rath could face a maximum of 18 months in jail if convicted on all counts.
