The Los Angeles Rams have been decimated by injuries this season and that includes at the quarterback position.
Matthew Stafford recently missed the loss to the Arizona Cardinals after entering the concussion protocol. He was able to get cleared and return for the Week 11 matchup with the New Orleans Saints, although he only made it to the third quarter before having to leave with another potential concussion.
Considering Stafford is now in the concussion protocol for the second time in the last month, it’s logical to think that he will miss time. This season is essentially lost at 3-7 so there’s no doubt the Rams will be cautious with their franchise quarterback to look out for his long-term health.
John Wolford is Stafford’s primary backup and started in the loss to the Cardinals although he is dealing with a neck injury of his own that has kept him out since.
So with the anticipation of both Stafford and Wolford missing the Week 12 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Rams announced they have signed quarterback Case Cookus to their practice squad.
Additionally, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is reporting that L.A. is giving Bryce Perkins first-team reps ahead of what will likely be his first career NFL start:
The #Rams are expected to give young QB Bryce Perkins first-team reps this week, per me and @TomPelissero, paving the way for a potential start given injuries to starter Matthew Stafford and John Wolford. This would be the first start for the former UDFA from Virginia. pic.twitter.com/6b3Tfenw54
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 23, 2022
This is not an ideal situation for the Rams going up against the Chiefs and their high-powered offense. They will make due with what they have though and that will likely be Perkins starting with Cookus backing him up.
Perkins does provide the Rams with some dual-threat ability so look for Sean McVay to go with a read option-heavy offense. L.A. has struggled to run the ball all season but they will have to if they want to have any chance against Kansas City.
