Rams Hold Off on Myles Garrett Return Decision

Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett remains in rehabilitation following knee surgery, and the team has not yet decided whether he will return to practice this week. Head coach Sean McVay told reporters on Monday that he has not spoken with vice president of sports medicine Reggie Scott to finalize the plan for Garrett or tight end Terrance Ferguson. Both players are nearing the end of their 21-day practice windows after being placed on injured reserve.

Garrett, who won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award last season, has missed the Rams' last six games. He underwent surgery after a knee issue limited him during training camp and affected his performance in the season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The Rams acquired Garrett in a June trade that sent a first-round draft pick and defensive end Jared Verse to the Cleveland Browns.

Ferguson sprained his ankle in Week 3 and is eligible to return from injured reserve this week. McVay said he needs to consult with Scott to determine if and to what extent either player can participate in on-field work.

The Rams' special teams unit continues to struggle with kickoff coverage, an issue McVay addressed after Sunday's 35-21 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. New kicker Brandon McManus made all five extra-point attempts, but the coverage unit allowed two large returns. Dylan Laube returned the opening kickoff 36 yards to the Raiders' 38-yard line and the second kickoff 42 yards to midfield. McManus kicked four touchbacks for the remainder of the game.

McVay noted that the execution issues are the same as those seen earlier in the season. He credited the Raiders' return unit and former Rams special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis for their effectiveness. McVay stated that the Rams cannot give up such favorable field position on the first two coverage attempts.

Tight end Colby Parkinson played through visible pain during Sunday's game, leaving the field twice with a limp and visiting the injury tent both times. The 6-foot-7 tight end reported hitting his head on the tent frame when it was pulled over him. Despite the discomfort, Parkinson returned to the game to record five catches for 48 yards and provide key run blocks.

Parkinson has dealt with various injuries this season, including issues with his knee and shoulder. He has played in six of the team's first seven games. McVay praised Parkinson's resilience, calling him a tough competitor who represents the team well in the final year of his contract.

The Rams will determine the status of Garrett and Ferguson after further medical evaluations. The team plans to address the kickoff coverage unit as they prepare for upcoming games.