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Lindsey ThiryESPN
THOUSAND OAKS, California – The Los Angeles Rams are expected to be short-handed in backfield on Sunday when they play against the Arizona Cardinals with a playoff berth at stake.
Backlash Darrell Henderson sustained a high ankle sprain in the third quarter of Sunday’s 20-9 defeat to the Seattle Seahawks, a source confirmed to ESPN. NFL Network first reported the severity of Henderson’s injury.
Ram’s rookie running back Cam Akers is also dealing with a high ankle sprain, which he contracted in week 15, which kept him inactive against the Seahawks and has his stake against the cardinals in question.
To get the Rams (9-6) a playoff spot, they must beat the Cardinals (8-7) at SoFi Stadium or the Green Bay Packers (12-3) must win at the Chicago Bears (8-7).
Uncertainty also persists over the availability of quarterback Jared Goff after dislocating the thumb of his throwing hand against the Seahawks late in the third quarter. Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the Rams fear Goff broke his thumb.
Goff met with Dr. Steven Shin, who treated Drew Brees for his thumb injury last year, a source told Schefter. Goff will need thumb surgery at some point; the question is when to get it. His status for Sunday remains uncertain.
If Goff can’t play, backup John Wolford is expected to make his first appearance in an NFL game.
Veteran Malcolm Brown, who has mainly been used for pass protection and goal line this season, could be the only experienced back. Brown has rushed to 399 yards and five touchdowns on 98 carriers this season.
The Rams also have rookie-backs Xavier Jones and Raymond Calais on the roster. Both have contributed to special teams this season.
Rams coach Sean McVay is expected to address the injury situations during his regularly scheduled press conference Monday night.