Rams Decide On Garrett Return

The Los Angeles Rams have not decided if defensive end Myles Garrett will return to practice this week.

Head coach Sean McVay told reporters on Monday that he has not yet spoken with vice president of sports medicine Reggie Scott. The two must determine whether Garrett or tight end Terrance Ferguson will open their 21 day practice windows after stints on injured reserve. McVay said, "I'm not sure yet. Have not decided on those things."

The team acquired Garrett in June in a trade that sent a first round draft pick, Jared Verse, and other capital to the Cleveland Browns. Garrett underwent knee surgery after an issue limited him in training camp and his impact in the season opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers. He has missed the six games since that defeat.

Ferguson sprained his ankle in Week 3. This week marks the first time he is eligible to return from injured reserve. McVay said he needs to consult with Scott before determining if and how much Garrett can participate in on field work.

The Rams defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 35 to 21 on Sunday. New kicker Brandon McManus made all five extra point attempts in that game. Despite the win, special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone and McVay remain concerned about the kickoff coverage unit.

Dylan Laube returned the opening kickoff 36 yards to the Raiders' 38 yard line. He took the second kickoff 42 yards to midfield. McManus kicked four touchbacks to end the game. McVay said the unit's performance was not good enough and that they must fix individual lapses in execution.

McVay noted that the Raiders' return unit was strong, crediting former Rams special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis for their preparation. The coach said, "It was the same. It was not good enough and we've talked about this a lot and it's just got to be fixed. It's not good enough and we cannot allow ourselves to do that."

Tight end Colby Parkinson played through pain on Sunday. The 6 foot 7 player left the field twice with a limp and entered the blue injury tent both times. He returned to the game to record five catches for 48 yards and help secure the victory.

Parkinson said the tent frame clipped his helmet twice as it was pulled over him. He added, "It's tight. I hit my head a couple times on the door swinging over. I'm going to try to stay away from that blue tent if I can." Parkinson has appeared in six of seven games this season despite knee and shoulder issues listed on the injury report.

The eighth year tight end is in the final year of his contract. McVay praised Parkinson's resilience, calling him a gutsy competitor who represents the group well. The coach said, "He's such a special human, such a tough human."