Maximus Pulley can give struggling Rams special teams a boost

The Los Angeles Rams are already managing a small cascade of injuries. While the headliner is Myles Garrett, they have struggled under the weight of other injury losses as well, though none is thought to be season-ending.

But playing without starters through the toughest stretch on the schedule is a tough row to hoe.

To help manage a hamstring injury to starting safety Kam Kinchens, the team promoted Tanner Ingle from the practice squad. While familiar with the Rams' defensive scheme, the 5-foot-8, 186-pound safety was primarily used on special teams. The secondary needs reinforcements.

And general manager Les Snead found one in safety Maximus Pulley from the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad. To make room for Pulley, the team put running back Ronnie Rivers on injured reserve.

Pulley is a versatile defensive back but has made his mark by playing outstanding coverage on special teams. The undrafted rookie was one of the Birds' preseason stars, recording 16 tackles. But more importantly, he held down a sturdy kick-coverage role.

The Rams can clearly use the help, and Pulley gives coordinator Bubba Ventrone another weapon.

Rams special teams must improve quickly

While both the offense and defense turned the corner in Week 2, special teams continued to lag. While not alarming just yet, the lack of better coverage on punts and suspect field-goal kicking is starting to become a concern.

Perhaps Maximus Pulley can help.

Already under immense pressure to turn this group around, Ventrone should hope so. Pulley's arrival could also allow Ingle to focus on pass coverage and work in the secondary, though hopefully the Rams don't need him due to further injury. No one wants to relive last year's nightmare.

Through two games, LA now carries four notable players on injured reserve: Garrett, Rivers, and offensive linemen Justin Dedich and Keagen Trost. At least three others - Kinchens plus receivers Puka Nacua and Jordan Whittington - were too injured to suit up in Week 2.

Head coach Sean McVay said Friday that Whittington will play, while Nacua and Kinchens remain doubtful. Tight end Colby Parkinson is questionable with a knee injury.

Pulley's arrival is merely intended to help bridge the gap caused by injuries. But if he makes the most of his opportunities, he could forge a more permanent depth role.

Pulley is worth watching. If he bolsters special-teams coverage, he could be a valuable get from an NFC rival. And no, Rams fans still aren't over Willie Lampkin.

As always, thanks for reading.

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