The Los Angeles Rams announced on Wednesday that cornerback Jaylen Watson will undergo shoulder surgery and miss the remainder of the 2024 season.
Coach Sean McVay confirmed the decision, stating that Watson’s injury, sustained during last Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers, requires surgical intervention. Watson, who signed a three-year contract with the Rams in March, had previously dislocated his right shoulder in Week 3 but returned to play before re-aggravating the injury.
McVay described the news as a "big blow," acknowledging Watson’s contributions since joining the team. "He’s been everything and that much more that we had hoped," McVay said. Quarterback Matthew Stafford echoed the sentiment, calling Watson a "big-time talent" and an "enforcer" on the defensive edge.
Watson, 28, recorded one interception and nine passes defended in seven games this season. His absence will force the Rams to rely on Josh Wallace, Emmanuel Forbes Jr., and Cam Lampkin to fill his role in the secondary. The team may also explore adding an outside cornerback before the NFL’s trade deadline on Tuesday.
Injury Updates and Roster Moves
The Rams also provided updates on other injured players. Edge rusher Myles Garrett is expected to be cleared to practice this week, though his return timeline remains uncertain. Garrett, tight end Terrance Ferguson, and running back Ronnie Rivers were all scheduled to practice on Wednesday after being opened to return from injured reserve.
Additionally, cornerback Trent McDuffie suffered a back injury during the Chargers game and did not practice on Wednesday. McDuffie, who has two interceptions this season, is among the players the Rams will need to evaluate moving forward.
Background on Watson’s Career
Watson began his NFL career as a seventh-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022. Over four seasons with the Chiefs, he recorded 178 tackles, four sacks, 24 passes defended, three interceptions, and one touchdown, while helping the team win two Super Bowl titles. He joined the Rams in free agency this offseason, signing a three-year, $51 million contract with $34 million in guarantees.
His collegiate career included stints at Ventura College and Washington State, where he totaled 44 tackles, one forced fumble, five passes defended, and two interceptions from 2021 to 2022.
The Rams now face the challenge of maintaining defensive stability with Watson sidelined for the season.