The Los Angeles Rams have cleared tight end Hunter Long to resume practice, initiating a 21-day period during which he can make his way back into game action. This move comes after he was placed on injured reserve prior to the season’s start.
Hunter Long joined the Rams as part of the Jalen Ramsey trade, which involved sending the star defensive back to the Miami Dolphins. Long was sidelined this summer, initially landing on the physically unable to perform list due to a thigh injury, which eventually led to his placement on injured reserve.
Throughout training camp and the preseason, Long had been grappling with injuries in his thigh and groin, and the Rams were aware of these issues when they acquired him in the trade with the Dolphins.
Having Long back in action provides another potential weapon for quarterback Matthew Stafford in an offense that has impressed many with its performance in the 2023 season. The Rams currently boast the NFL’s seventh-ranked passing offense in terms of yards per game, and rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua stands third in the league for receiving yards.
If Long can make a full recovery and fulfill the role the Rams had envisioned for him when they acquired him from the Dolphins, he can add depth to an offense led by Stafford, Cooper Kupp, Nacua, and Tyler Higbee.
While Long has primarily been a pass-blocking tight end during his two seasons with the Dolphins, his return as the sole player from the Ramsey trade suggests he might play a more significant role in Los Angeles than he did in Miami. However, the early success of the Rams’ offense may influence this situation.
Long has the opportunity to return to the field at any point between Week 8, when they face the Dallas Cowboys, and Week 11, when they play against the Seattle Seahawks, within the 21-day return window. If he cannot make a return during that timeframe, he will be ruled out for the season.
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