LA Rams rushing revisions post Darrell Henderson injury

The LA Rams running backs seem to be falling like dominoes now. Well, they seem to be experiencing a higher than typical injury rate so far in the early stages of the 2021 NFL season. The LA Rams entered their OTA with six running back, and have already lost two contributors for what may be the entire season.

First off, running back Cam Akers tore his Achilles Tendon and may be out for what appears to be the entire season. Secondly, running back Raymond Calais injured his foot and that will require surgery. Due to the four to six-month recovery time, he was released and, if he clears waivers, will likely be sent to the team’s injured reserve roster.

Then on Monday, August 23rd, the Rams had another setback. This time it was thrice injured running back Darrell Henderson. He had a sore ankle that limited him to OTAs. He then hurt his hand. Now, this time it was his thumb. Not one injury was major enough to project him at missing game time. But the culmination of three injuries, while citing no preseason game work, is a terrible trend for the guy unto itself.

Even though the outcome of the matter was a minor injury, it is the third such incident for the guy this year already, and the Rams have done everything to keep him healthy short of wrapping him in bubble wrap. That’s hardly a foundation to lay for a guy who many have projected as the starting rusher for the Rams offense.

Hey, he can still run with the ball, right?  So what’s the problem? Well, the thumb for a running game is vital, as that digit is the basis of holding the ball and retaining control throughout the run. An injured thumb greatly increases the risk of fumbles, which is not a risk that the Rams should be willing to take.