You may have heard that travelers need to be cautious when drinking water or dining on local cuisine. It’s a precaution that’s often warranted, as unfamiliar food or water can unsettle even the strongest stomachs. Maybe the Los Angeles Rams should start issuing similar warnings to players heading to Philadelphia.
Related: Eagles shamelessly poke Rams with ruthless reminder before kickoff
One such player, outside linebacker Nick Hampton, would’ve benefited from one. After practicing all week without issue, Hampton has now been ruled out for Week 3. The timing is bizarre, with the decision coming just a day before kickoff due to a sudden illness.
Quite the mystery, right? Well, not if you’re a super sleuth. One unconfirmed social media report suggests Hampton’s illness may stem from a bad reaction to a Philly cheesesteak. To be fair, those things can go down quick, but if your diet isn’t used to rich steak and gooey cheese, it can do a number on your system. Or maybe it's a ploy by the Eagles to try to food-poison their way out of a daunting Week 3 early afternoon matchup against the Horns — we'll never know.
Nick Hampton's absence limits Rams pass rushers to 3 in Week 3
Los Angeles’ pass rush has been a strength, but heading into Week 3 with just three healthy outside linebackers adds serious risk. The team will lean on Jared Verse, Byron Young, and Josaiah Stewart to handle the load.
Thankfully, the defense crosstrained Desjuan Johnson to play upright on the edge in case of an emergency like this. He’s the most likely candidate to rotate in as needed. The good news? Hampton’s absence doesn’t appear to be long-term, and he’s expected back soon.
He earned the final EDGE roster spot after a competitive camp and preseason. The team still has OLB Jamil Muhammad stashed on the practice squad. Brennan Jackson, another strong pass-rushing candidate, was claimed off waivers by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Eagles fans are upset about the tush push the Rams were trying to ban... and then all of a sudden, in comes some nasty in the cheese. You hate to see it. But in all seriousness, no one's suggesting foul play. Food poisoning stinks, and it happens to the best of us. Here's to a speedy recovery for Hampton.
As always, thanks for reading.