Rams’ injury nightmare gets worse as another defensive star ruled out

The Los Angeles Rams can’t seem to catch a break, and now they’re losing one of the few defensive playmakers who has consistently delivered for them.

Linebacker Nate Landman has officially been ruled out of Sunday’s must-win showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders after suffering a concussion, head coach Sean McVay confirmed Friday.

“He’s making good progress, though,” McVay said.

That’s encouraging news for Landman, but little consolation for a Rams defense already decimated by injuries.

With defensive tackle Poona Ford lost for the season, Kobie Turner sidelined for multiple weeks and Myles Garrett still recovering, Landman’s absence removes another important piece from a unit desperately trying to keep the Rams’ season afloat. 

And those aren’t the only injuries the Rams are dealing with. 

All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, who missed last Sunday’s embarrassing 18-16 loss to the Arizona Cardinals with a groin injury, has yet to practice this week. McVay confirmed McDuffie will sit out Friday’s session and is questionable against Las Vegas.

But having not practiced all week does not bode well for his chances of suiting up.

Meanwhile, star receiver Puka Nacua suffered a calf injury during Thursday’s practice and will also miss Friday’s session. McVay said Nacua, who has already battled multiple injuries this season, is questionable and will be a game-time decision.

If Nacua can’t go, the Rams will be without both of their starting receivers as Davante Adams was diagnosed with a ruptured hamstring and is expected to miss 6-10 weeks after undergoing surgery. 

Suddenly, the Rams could be without several of their most important players on both sides of the football.

At 2-4 and sitting in last place in the NFC West, Los Angeles has already squandered too many opportunities through penalties, special teams blunders and an inability to finish games.

Now the injury list is threatening to finish off their season before it ever gets a chance to get rolling.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters