Injuries still have Les Snead scrambling to patch Rams roster

Ah yes, it's time to reconcile the offseason expectations with the reality of the season itself. On paper, the Los Angeles Rams are brimming with stars on both sides of the ball. But on the field, early injuries have depleted the ranks. It's tough to win consistently against quality opponents with one hand tied behind your back.

Since the start of September, general manager Les Snead has been actively reformulating the active and practice squad rosters. Only four games into the season, players have been elevated, released, and signed at a fairly brisk pace.

Snead doesn't complain. He simply does. And what he does is continue to make educated roster moves from top to bottom in an effort to optimize both depth and talent.

Rams pass defense continues to be tweaked as injuries mount

The Rams have already lost Myles Garrett. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald and cornerback Jaylen Watson won't play against the Eagles. Josaiah Stewart is managing a groin injury. That's hardly an exhaustive accounting. The team has met a lot of turnover in just three games thus far.

So it comes as no surprise that the Rams continues to replenish the ranks from the practice squad. For Week 4, they have elevated versatile cornerback Cam Lampkin and edge rusher Darryl Peterson.

Those two are unlikely to see action on defense, but their elevations do reflect LA's nearly exhausted roster depth. Should the team suffer additional injuries, Snead will likely sign free agents to fill the gaps.

Special teams are still a work-in-process

Special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone gave return specialist Xavier Smith the hook after a poor performance in Week 3. His roster spot (and return role) will be held by Alex Bachman off the practice squad. Bachman has history with Los Angeles and will now try to earn a more permanent role as a return specialist.

Punter Ethan Evans has earned a stern warning from Ventrone as well. Even placekicker Harrison Mevis has been inching closer to the hot seat so far this season.

Ventrone has his work cut out for him, and with Smith's departure, has shown himself willing to give poor performers the boot.

Tight end room already getting banged up

Despite carrying five tight ends on the roster to start the season, the team's depth is already being tested. Second-year tight end Terrance Ferguson is now on injured reserve, which will keep him out of action for at least four games. That should result in reps for rookie Max Klare.

Colby Parkinson, last year's leader in the room, is fighting through knee and shoulder injuries. Davis Allen was evaluated for a concussion in Week 1, but he did return to the game.

Thus, three of five tight ends have suffered injuries in the first three games. Despite that, Klare has yet to get any work on offense. That should change today.

Stay tuned. Les Snead does not sit idly by. And the depleted Rams roster may soon be screaming for an intervention.

As always, thanks for reading.

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