Injury Report 1/12: Joe Noteboom, Troy Reeder, Tyler Higbee, Kevin Dotson, and Jordan Fuller are doubtful for the Lions Wild Card Round; Dotson and Higbee anticipated playing
The Rams‘ playoff game against the Lions at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday (5 p.m. PT; NBC, Peacock, Universo) features defensive back Jordan Fuller (ankle), offensive lineman Joe Noteboom (foot), linebacker Troy Reeder (knee), tight end Tyler Higbee (shoulder), and offensive lineman Kevin Dotson (shoulder) all listed as questionable.
Fuller did not take part in the practice on Friday. Rams head coach Sean McVay reiterated on Friday that they would take all the time necessary to decide whether or not Fuller plays on Sunday, just as he has done throughout the week. On Friday, McVay stated that Fuller had been progressing well.
When asked if Fuller could come in and play right away on Sunday, McVay responded, “I think so.”
“I think ultimately, I trust him and I trust (VP Sports Medicine and Performance) Reggie (Scott) and our group to be able to say, ‘Okay, physically are we going to be able to perform at a level that is in alignment with the standards he’s set for himself and for the caliber of play that he brings?'” stated McVay. He’s the kind of guy you want to give all the time he needs because of his ownership and experience. However, I felt that it was beneficial for other guys to have the chance to step up and perform exceptionally well. Hopefully, we’ll have him, but if not, we have a lot of faith in those guys to fill in.”
Dotson and Higbee are listed as questionable, but McVay added that he doesn’t think their injuries will affect their availability on Sunday.
McVay stated, “I believe they’ll be in good shape.”
And “if things continue to go in the right direction” with Noteboom, McVay said he feels good about his availability for Sunday.
Bobby Brown III, a nose tackle, is likewise marked as questionable due to illness. McVay stated that although he was “a little sick today,” he “hopefully he’ll turn over” before Sunday’s game.
Sam LaPorta, a tight end for the Lions, has a knee injury that is officially listed as questionable.
