Robert Quinn, T.J. McDonald in doubt for the Rams matchup against the Vikings

The St. Louis Rams are feeling the pressure this week with some big names popping up on the injury report. Heading into their Week 9 matchup, with possible playoff implications, these key injuries couldn’t have come at a worse time.

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Of those listed on Friday’s injury report are defensive end Robert Quinn (knee), right tackle Rob Havenstein (ankle) and safety T.J. McDonald (foot). Defensive end Chris Long (knee) has already been ruled out for Sunday. The other three have been listed as questionable, giving them a 50-50 chance of playing against Minnesota and could be game-time decisions.

Obviously, all three are integral parts of both the defense and the offense. Quinn and McDonald have been key components of the Rams top ten defensive unit. Quinn is tops on the team with five sacks this season, and McDonald has already compiled a more than a few of his highlight reel hits. Havenstein, still just a rookie, has picked up the ropes quickly. While he has had his moments of lapse, Havenstein has produced well on the right side of the line.

Nov 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive end Robert Quinn (94) pressures San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

If Quinn cannot play on Sunday, St. Louis will look to veteran Eugene Sims. Sims recorded his first sack of the season, ninth of his career, in Week 1 against Seattle. Unfortunately, Sims was injured in that game and has missed a significant portion of the season since, but has played in the last three games.

McDonald would be replaced by Maurice Alexander. Alexander, now in his second year, was selected in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL draft by the Rams. He has recored nine tackles over a season and a half.

Replacing Havenstein might prove to be a bit more difficult for the team. They have a couple of options though. They could opt to move left guard Garrett Reynolds over to the right tackle slot, or give rookie Darrell Williams the start and leave Reynolds where he is. Either way, a change of position is required for both players which can make things a bit murky.

The injury report was rounded out by defensive end William Hayes (thigh), running back Chase Reynolds (thigh) and running back Tre Mason (thigh). All were listed as questionable for Sunday.