Fans are panic-stricken to learn grim news from early Rams injury report

The Los Angeles Rams have advanced one step closer to a victory in Super Bowl LX. But it's that time of the season that regular-season bumps and bruises are no longer minor injuries. Sure, players can and likely will tough it out. But injuries inevitably impact performance.

While the report about Matthew Stafford's injury to his throwing hand remains positive, fans realize that it's a mixed bag. Yes, X-rays revealed no serious damage to the index finger of his throwing hand, which means that he will be good to go on Sunday against the Chicago Bears.

But with the weather forecast predicting bitterly cold and windy conditions, the veteran quarterback faces a tough challenge even before the defense takes the football field. It doesn't take much to take a sprained finger to ache in bone-chilling cold.

Rams fans are also plenty worried about cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon. He injured his shoulder again and is heading to the injured reserve. Losing Witherspoon is the last thing the secondary needs for this one.

LA Rams roster needs to get healthy quickly

Los Angeles faced the Carolina Panthers without either cornerbacks Derion Kendrick, Darious Williams, or Josh Wallace, as all three were inactive. So, at least one or more will likely be used in Witherspoon's place against the Chicago Bears. With the recent struggles in the secondary, look for the team to rotate multiple defensive backs onto the field, hoping to find a competitive group.

But the secondary is only one area affected by injuries.

LA played two backup offensive linemen against the Panthers. The hope is that starting right guard Kevin Dotson can heal enough to resume starting against the Bears. If not, undrafted offensive lineman Justin Dedich will stay at right guard.

The team would also love to welcome back both tight end Terrance Ferguson and wide receiver Jordan Whittington. Both were banged up before facing Carolina, and the team could use healthy reinforcements.

Whittington is a special team ace, plus adding physicality to the offense. Ferguson is still trying to carve out a niche role, but he has found the end zone for this offense, and that always comes in handy.

The Horns narrowly escaped disaster after one playoff game. But the impact will be felt in Round 2 unless some injured players return for Round 2. Only the healthiest teams win Super Bowls. The LA Rams have to start getting healthier quickly to make that happen.

As always, thanks for reading.