Tyler Higbee's Season Ends with Torn ACL
The Los Angeles Rams have suffered a significant blow to their offense as tight end Tyler Higbee sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The injury occurred during the team's wild-card playoff loss to the Detroit Lions, a game that ended with a narrow 24-23 scoreline favoring the Lions.
Medical evaluations, including an MRI conducted on Tuesday, confirmed the severity of Higbee's injury. While the timeline for his recovery remains uncertain, this casts doubt over his availability for the start of the 2024 regular season.
The incident took place when Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford targeted Higbee with a pass. Kerby Joseph, the Lions' safety, tackled Higbee, inadvertently hitting his right knee and causing the injury. Following the collision, Higbee was seen limping off the field and did not return to play for the remainder of the game.
A Productive Season Cut Short
Prior to his injury, Higbee had been enjoying a productive season. He finished the year with 47 catches, amassing 495 receiving yards and scoring two touchdowns. At 31 years old, Higbee is a seasoned veteran who just last fall extended his commitment to the Rams with a two-year, $27 million contract, which will keep him with the team through the 2025 season.
Players and Coaches React to Injury
The tackle by Joseph has sparked reactions from players across the league. Joseph himself took to Twitter to address the situation, stating, "I’m praying for bro and his family. I don’t have no intention to hurt nobody and/or harm their career... All seriousness, this game we play is very dangerous."
Other NFL players also commented on the nature of the tackle. Linebacker Alex Anzalone defended Joseph's actions, saying, "Honestly, it's what this league is now. You have to go low, you can't go high and it's a clinic tackle, in my opinion... It’s a dangerous, violent sport. It’s legal to cut block DEs full speed while he’s blinded on run plays. The QB should know not to throw this ball and protect his own player. And like I said, I do not want anyone to get hurt out there."
C.J. Gardner-Johnson added his perspective, particularly addressing any perceptions of the hit being dirty: "If anybody on the Rams feels like it was dirty, well tell his quarterback don’t put the ball in a place where he can get his player hurt."
Rams Leadership Reflects on the Season
Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed pride in his team despite the loss and the unfortunate injury to Higbee. "I'm so proud of this football team. And the finality of it is still kind of... it doesn't totally resonate. But man did I learn a lot and really appreciate this group," McVay reflected.
He continued, acknowledging the performance of the opposing team, "Hats off to the Lions for finding a way to get it done. I got nothing but respect for that group."
Rams defensive lineman Kobie Turner spoke about the future following the defeat and Higbee's injury, showing determination and optimism. "We're going to keep pushing," he stated, suggesting a focus on growth and improvement moving forward.
Looking Ahead
As the Rams look ahead to the next season without one of their key offensive players, the team's depth and resilience will be tested. Higbee's absence will undoubtedly be felt, both on the field and in the locker room. However, with a strong leadership core and a commitment to growth, the Rams are poised to face the challenges ahead.
The road to recovery for Higbee begins now, and with modern advancements in sports medicine and rehabilitation, there is hope for a successful return to the gridiron. For now, the Rams and their fans will be wishing Higbee a swift and complete recovery as they prepare to embark on the 2024 NFL season.