Rams 'Not Going to Run the Risk' with Injured OT vs. Commanders

As the Los Angeles Rams (6-7) continue their march towards a return to postseason play, they'll do so with questions surrounding a pair of key offensive players.

Rams coach Sean McVay revealed Friday that receiver TuTu Atwell hasn't yet cleared concussion protocol, and while he was a full participant in Los Angeles' final practice ahead of Sunday's game vs. the Washington Commanders (4-9), still has some steps to take.

Nonetheless, Atwell's outlook appears promising - but the status of starting right tackle Rob Havenstein is less clear.

The 31-year-old Havenstein, who's started 11 games this season, didn't practice Friday and is officially labeled as questionable for Sunday with a groin injury.

Is Havenstein in line to play against Washington? McVay said he's unsure.

“It's one of those deals that you’re taking it a day at a time with those soft tissues,” McVay said. “So, because he is such a veteran, you are definitely not going to run the risk of further exposing him to maybe any sort of setback.

“We’re going to use all the time necessary to see if he's a go for us.”

McVay acknowledged it's a possibility the Rams could prompt fifth-round rookie offensive tackle Warren McClendon onto the active gameday roster after spending the past five games as a healthy scratch.

The situation surrounding Havenstein is clear-cut for McVay, as there's no intent to have him active unless he's fully able to play the entire game.

“I think it'll be probably an either Rob is going or he's not,” McVay said. “If there is something that you’re in between on you could potentially look at carrying nine linemen, I think we would most likely go towards, 'hey, he's up and he's going,' or he's not and then that would elevate somebody.”

When Havenstein prematurely departed last Sunday's 37-31 overtime loss to the Baltimore Ravens, he was replaced by Joe Noteboom, who McVay said earlier this week “did a nice job.”

Is Noteboom poised to get another opportunity?

Only time will tell - but the clock is ticking, as the Rams are set to host the Commanders at 1:05 p.m. PST Sunday inside SoFi Stadium.