Tyler Higbee injury update: reviewing the latest clinical assessment of Rams TE

The Los Angeles Rams, led by tight end Tyler Higbee, ended their regular season with a 10-7 record. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions closed the campaign with a 12-5 record. After finishing the season finale, both teams faced off against each other in the NFL playoff match. The playoffs sparked extra excitement due to the history of quarterback shuffles between these two teams.

The former Lions quarterback ended up with the Rams, while former Rams quarterback Jared Goff started a new journey with the Lions due to the trade. Moving on to the game, Stafford and rookie star Puka Nacua’s incredible performance couldn’t help the Rams escaping a one-point loss to the Lions. And, on top of all that, the match also hit the headlines for a gruesome injury to Tyler Higbee on the field.

Tyler Higbee injury update

Tyler Higbee faced a disappointing end to the wild-card playoff round against the Lions, failing to make a catch and leaving the game due to injury. The unfortunate moment occurred in the fourth quarter when Lions safety Kerby Joseph collided with Higbee’s right knee as he attempted to secure a pass. The aftermath saw the Rams visibly in pain, prompting his exit from the field for further evaluation in the medical tent.

The severity of the veteran’s injury became a major concern, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter reporting a possible torn ACL via the Pro Football Network. This setback casts doubt on his readiness for the start of the 2024 season, especially given the late stage in the campaign at which the injury occurred.

Tyler Higbee’s absence was felt earlier, as he did not play in Week 18 and had limited participation in practices leading up to the wild-card game. Despite being questionable, he decided to suit up, but his on-field contribution was cut short.

Throughout the regular season, the TE amassed 47 catches on 70 targets, totaling 495 yards and contributing two touchdowns. However, his playoff journey was cut short with just one target and no receptions in the ill-fated game against the Lions.

CJ Gardner-Johnson comes to Kerby Joseph’s defense over Tyler Higbee hit

The controversial hit on Tyler Higbee by Kerby Joseph sparked a heated exchange on the field. Matthew Stafford, returning to the game, threw a pass to Higbee, who struggled to secure the reception. In the process, Joseph tackled Higbee below the knee, resulting in a hyperextended knee for the receiver. While the tackle was deemed legal with no penalty flagged, Stafford and other Rams players expressed their displeasure.

However, Lions safety CJ Gardner-Johnson swiftly came to the defense of his teammate, Joseph. He shifted the blame onto Stafford, asserting that if the Rams felt the hit was dirty, it was the responsibility of the quarterback to avoid placing the ball in a position that could lead to injuries. The vet also drew parallels to Tom Brady’s habit of cautioning against risky throws to protect his teammates.

“If anybody in the rams feel it was dirty, well tell his QB don’t put the ball in the place where get his player hurt. you heard brady say it all the time”, he said.

Meanwhile, Jointoph continues his entry in the limelight for hitting receivers at the knees. In a previous incident on Christmas Eve, his hit on the Minnesota Vikings T.J. Hockenson resulted in a season-ending injury to the tight end. The Vikings star tore both ACL and MCL in his right knee. Despite the controversy surrounding Joseph’s playing style, he escaped penalties and fines from the league.