The Los Angeles Rams managed to get back into the win column with a huge win over the formidable New Orleans Saints. However, it also marked the second time in two weeks that Los Angeles suffered yet another key loss.
Starting outside linebacker and defensive captain Connor Barwin was forced to leave the game early with a forearm injury. According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, Barwin suffered a forearm fracture and could potentially be out for the next two games:
#Rams LB Connor Barwin suffered a slight fracture of a bone in his forearm that knocked him out of the game Sunday, source said, but he’s only expected to miss one or two games.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 28, 2017
The injury certainly leaves the Rams defense without its most veteran leader. Fortunately, much like wide receiver Robert Woods, he will likely only be out for just a few weeks. Barwin has since undergone successful surgery to repair his forearm, however, his status for their Week 14 showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles still remains unclear.
Despite the loss, it is encouraging to see Los Angeles manage to contain one of the most potent rushing attacks in the league, not to mention its most accurate passer in veteran quarterback Drew Brees. They will need to keep the effort on defense going against an Arizona Cardinals team that is still hoping to make a final push in the NFC West.
Stepping up in Barwin’s place will be rookie linebacker Samson Ebukam. The fourth-rounder has largely spent the year on special teams, however, he has seen an uptick in playing time over the past several weeks.
