Los Angeles Rams fans are eagerly awaiting updates on key players sidelined with injuries. Head coach Sean McVay recently provided insights into the potential return timelines for safety John Johnson Iii, tight end Tyler Higbee, and linebacker Troy Reeder. This update focuses on the anticipated return of John Johnson III and its implications for the Rams defense.
McVay indicated that John Johnson III, who has been on Injured Reserve since Week 2 due to a shoulder injury sustained against the Arizona Cardinals, is progressing well. Initially placed on IR on September 18th, concerns grew about when the veteran safety would rejoin the team. However, McVay’s recent comments suggest a potential return is on the horizon. While initially stating Johnson was “a couple weeks away,” similar to Tyler Higbee’s timeline, McVay later clarified that John Johnson III’s situation could be more week-to-week, hinting at a potentially sooner return than initially anticipated.
The news surrounding Tyler Higbee’s recovery from a torn ACL and MCL sustained in the playoff game against the Detroit Lions is also encouraging, albeit with a slightly longer timeline. McVay stated Higbee is “a couple weeks away” from returning. Higbee, who is on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list, is reportedly looking good in his recovery process but a definitive return date remains pending.
Linebacker Troy Reeder, who was placed on IR on October 24th with a hamstring injury, is also considered week-to-week, according to McVay. Having already missed the minimum four games required for IR designation, Reeder could theoretically return as early as next week.
A crucial factor influencing the return of both Reeder and John Johnson III is the Rams’ remaining Injured Reserve return designation. Teams are limited to eight IR return designations per season, and the Rams have already utilized seven. This leaves only one remaining spot, creating a strategic decision for the team regarding which player to activate if both Johnson and Reeder are ready to return around the same time. It’s important to note these IR return designation rules do not apply to Tyler Higbee, due to his placement on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list.
In conclusion, Rams fans can be optimistic about the potential return of John Johnson III in the near future. While the exact timeline remains somewhat uncertain, the update from Sean McVay suggests Johnson’s return could be sooner rather than later, providing a significant boost to the Rams defense as they navigate the season. The situation with the final IR return designation adds an element of strategic decision-making for the team as they manage player returns.
