LA Rams defense surprised Cardinals by giving playing time to this new edge rusher

The LA Rams had just signed Takkarist “Takk” McKinley to the roster from the practice squad of the Tennessee Titans during the week leading up to their Week 3 game. That was hardly enough time to get onboarded, handed a playbook, sized for equipment and uniforms, and even shake hands with his defensive teammates.

But he did all of that and more. You see, when the very important NFC West Division rival game against the Arizona Cardinals arrived, so did Takk McKinley. He was ready to play for the LA Rams.

Takk McKinley played just seven snaps for the LA Rams on defense. He didn’t record a tackle, did not get any pressure on the quarterback, and did not get a quarterback sack. But it was a successful debut nevertheless.

The Rams’ defense played 83 defensive snaps in the game. That’s a lot of time to spend on the playing field, and a huge number of opportunities to get dinged up. The Rams’ defense, with the exception of Derion Kendrick’s entry into the NFL concussion protocol, emerged relatively unscathed from this one.

2 Sacks, but none for Takk

The Rams did get two quarterback sacks on the day. One came from All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald, who hit his 100th quarterback sack milestone with the event. The second came from outside linebacker Terrell Lewis, whose quarterback sack continues his trend as one of the Rams’ more productive and versatile defenders on the football field.

Just seven defensive snaps for Takk McKinley. But in view of the fact that he had just arrived, that is huge. The Rams won the game with a huge defensive effort, holding the Arizona Cardinals offense to just four field goals.

McKinley’s presence on the field may not have directly contributed to the Rams’ win, but he did help the Rams’ defensive rotation remain fresh enough to claim a solid win in the game.