Tyler Higbee's Season Ends with ACL Injury
In a turn of events that has cast a shadow over the Los Angeles Rams' postseason, tight end Tyler Higbee sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the wild-card loss to the Detroit Lions. The injury was confirmed by an MRI on Tuesday, leaving the team and fans concerned about his recovery timeline.
The incident occurred when Matthew Stafford, the Rams' quarterback, threw a pass intended for Higbee. Kerby Joseph, the Lions' safety, tackled Higbee, inadvertently hitting his right knee, which led to the injury. Higbee was seen limping off the field following the tackle and did not return to the game.
Throughout the season, Higbee has been a reliable target for the Rams' offense, recording 47 catches for 495 receiving yards and two touchdowns. At 31 years old, Higbee is at a stage in his career where recovery from such injuries can be complex, casting uncertainty on his readiness for the 2024 regular season.
Last fall, Higbee solidified his future with the Rams by signing a two-year, $27 million contract extension, ensuring his stay with the team through the 2025 season. This injury puts both Higbee's immediate playing future and the Rams' investment into question as they evaluate their options moving forward.
Reactions to the Tackle
The aftermath of the play has sparked a discussion about the nature of tackles in the NFL. Kerby Joseph took to Twitter to express his sentiments, 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."
Alex Anzalone, linebacker for the Lions, defended the legality of the tackle. He commented, "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."
C.J. Gardner-Johnson also chimed in, placing some responsibility on 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."
Rams Reflect on Loss and Look Ahead
Despite the loss and Higbee's injury, Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed pride in his team's performance throughout the season. In his comments, he showed a reflective tone, saying, "I'm so proud of this football team. 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."
McVay also acknowledged the Lions' efforts in their playoff victory: "Hats off to the Lions for finding a way to get it done. I got nothing but respect for that group." The Lions edged out the Rams with a narrow 24-23 win, advancing in the playoffs and ending the Rams' championship aspirations.
Rookie defensive lineman Kobie Turner spoke about the team's potential despite the setback, asserting, "We're going to keep pushing." His statement reflects the resolve within the Rams' locker room to overcome adversity and continue striving for success.
The Rams' journey this season has been fraught with highs and lows, and Higbee's injury is a significant blow to the team. However, the ethos of perseverance and growth echoed by the players and coaching staff suggests that the Rams will use this experience as fuel for their future endeavors on the gridiron.
As the NFL community rallies around Higbee, wishing him a swift and complete recovery, attention now turns to the Rams' offseason moves and how they will adapt to this unexpected challenge. With the next season on the horizon, the Rams are poised to rebuild and return with the same tenacity that has defined their team spirit.