Is LA Rams latest roster move mere precaution, or premonition?

The decision over who to play at right tackle hinges on many factors

Well, the LA Rams have tried to make the best of a difficult situation, as the team continues to struggle to get Rob Havenstin suited up and on the football field, the reality of the situation is that is looking as though it may be more and more unlikely. And that is despite the final LA Rams injury report giving fans cause to hope for the best.

You see, it's not just about getting starting right tackle Rob Havenstein healthy enough to play. There are others factors to consider. Such as: Is 80 percent or so of Havenstein as effective at the offensive tackle position as 100 percent of his backup, Warren McClendon, at right tackle? And then there are other considerations too,

If the team goes ahead and starts Rob Havenstein, how might reinjury impact his availability for the rest of the season? If he is hobbled against the Lions, might the team have risked the outcome of one game, but lost their starting right tackle for many more games?

This team typically errs on the side of caution. That's why no starters compete in preseason games. In fact, the team typically ends up sitting 30 to 40 players in preseason, so as not to risk injuries to key contributors. The Rams had five running backs throughout preseason. But Kyren Williams, rookie Blake Corum, and Ronnie Rivers did not see the football field in any preseason games.

Ultimately, professional football is a very physical and violent sport. As such, players are subject to injury, which has been the case in 2024. While many of the injuries are temporary in nature, the challenge finding ways to win without key injured players is no simple task. It involves players stepping up, the front office taking steps to help, and a bit of luck.