Heartbreak for Higbee in Wild-Card Loss
In a devastating turn of events, Los Angeles Rams tight end Tyler Higbee suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the team's wild-card matchup against the Detroit Lions. The injury occurred when Matthew Stafford threw an incomplete pass intended for Higbee, which was followed by a tackle from Lions' safety Kerby Joseph that struck Higbee's right knee.Higbee, who had been a reliable target throughout the season with 47 catches for 495 receiving yards and two touchdowns, limped off the field and did not return to the game. An MRI conducted on Tuesday confirmed the extent of the injury, leaving Higbee's recovery timeline uncertain and casting doubt over his readiness for the 2024 regular season.
Rams' Playoff Hopes Dashed
The incident added insult to injury as the Rams narrowly lost to the Lions with a final score of 24-23. Despite the loss, Rams head coach Sean McVay held his head high, expressing pride in his team's performance and acknowledging the valuable lessons learned from the experience. "I'm so proud of this football team," McVay said. "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." Defensive lineman Kobie Turner also spoke optimistically about the team's future, insisting, "We're going to keep pushing."
A Controversial Tackle
The nature of the tackle by Joseph has sparked debate across the league. Joseph himself took to Twitter to address the incident, 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." His sentiment reflects the inherent risks of professional football, a sport known for its high-impact collisions and potential for serious injuries.
Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone weighed in on the situation, commenting on the legality and technique of the tackle. "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 the throw this ball and protect his own player. And like I said, I do not want anyone to get hurt out there," Anzalone explained.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson, another defender of Joseph's hit, shifted some responsibility onto the quarterback. "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," Gardner-Johnson said, highlighting the split-second decisions that quarterbacks must make and the consequences they can have for receivers.
Looking Ahead for Higbee and the Rams
At 31 years old, Higbee faces a challenging road to recovery following his ACL tear. The tight end signed a two-year, $27 million extension with the Rams last fall, ensuring his contract with the team lasts through the 2025 season. The Rams, who have invested heavily in Higbee, will be keenly monitoring his rehabilitation process and hoping for a full recovery.
As the Rams reflect on their playoff exit and look to the future, they are reminded of the unpredictability and physical toll of the sport. Injuries like Higbee's are sobering reminders of the risks NFL players face every time they step onto the field. For now, the Rams organization, teammates, and fans extend their support to Higbee as he begins his journey toward healing and, hopefully, a return to the gridiron.
Despite the setback, the Rams remain focused on growth and improvement. As Coach McVay and players like Turner have indicated, the team's resolve is unshaken. They will continue to push forward, building on the foundation laid this season and striving for success in the next. The road ahead may be uncertain, but the determination within the Rams' locker room is clear and unwavering.