The Los Angeles Rams were able to move into first place in the NFC West with their 23-16 win over the Seattle Seahawks as well as the Arizona Cardinals. The win gives the Rams some momentum moving forward as they continue to work towards a playoff spot. However, the team will have to do so without the veteran presence of tackle Andrew Whitworth.
Rams veteran OL Andrew Whitworth was carted off of the field today after a left knee injury. pic.twitter.com/FJhLVz8ZKw
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 15, 2020
#Rams LT Andrew Whitworth suffered a torn MCL, source said following tests tonight. He also has damage to his PCL. The respected veteran is headed to Injured Reserve. The good news is his ACL is intact.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 16, 2020
While it is good news that he didn’t suffer any damage to his ACL, the tearing of his MCL and damage to his PCL has to make fans wonder if this could be the end of his career. The 38-year old signed a three-year contract earlier this year to remain with the Rams. It also seemed like Los Angeles was his only option besides retirement. Now, his injury and his age leave him with little options left. However, Whitworth offered thanks instead of any signs of complaining.
From Andrew Whitworth 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/yduUw4Hs7j
— RamsToday (@RamsTodayIG) November 15, 2020
While there is hope that Whitworth can make a recovery and play out his contract with the Rams, it’s much more likely that the Rams could cut ties to free up some cap space down the line as well as free up a roster spot. The 15-year veteran had hoped to finish his career off in Los Angeles, and while he still may, it’s not the retirement he had envisioned.
Joseph Noteboom seems like the likely candidate to replace Whitworth. After a devastating injury of his own in 2019, the second-year lineman is poised to make a comeback and help solidify the line during Andrew’s absence. If it is indeed the end of Whitworth’s career, we wish him the best of luck as well as a speedy recovery!
