Rams place Jaylen Watson on IR after shoulder surgery
Cornerback out for remainder of 2026 season; Myles Garrett and Terrance Ferguson return to practice.
By Ivan Dvorak ·
Los Angeles Rams starting cornerback Jaylen Watson will miss the rest of the 2026 season following shoulder surgery, according to Head Coach Sean McVay. The decision was announced on Wednesday, ending a strong start for the 4-4 team's secondary.
Watson sustained the injury during Sunday's 24-9 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. It is a recurrence of an injury that sidelined him earlier in the year after a dislocation. The Rams acquired Watson from the Kansas City Chiefs in March as part of a three-year, $51 million free agency deal.
In the seven games he played, Watson recorded 24 tackles, one interception, and nine passes defensed. McVay described the loss as a major setback but noted the player wanted to attempt to play through the pain. The coaching staff recommended surgery to address the full scope of the injury.
"That's a big blow, a bummer for him," McVay said. "He's been such a stud for us. He wanted to be able to play through it, but just kind of understanding the totality of it all, it was recommended for him to get that surgery, and he'll be on IR."
The injury leaves the Rams without three starting defensive backs for their upcoming Sunday trip to Washington. Safety Kam Curl missed Wednesday's practice with a foot injury, and corner Trent McDuffie sat out with a back issue. McDuffie had previously missed two games with a hamstring problem but expressed confidence on Monday that his latest ailment would not force him to miss time.
Defensive end Myles Garrett returned to practice for the first time since his debut in Australia nearly two months ago. The two-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year missed seven games following knee surgery. McVay said Garrett would take about half of the available reps to gauge his body's response before a final decision is made regarding Sunday's game.
Tight end Terrance Ferguson also rejoined the practice group after missing five games with an ankle injury. Running back Ronnie Rivers returned after a six-week absence due to a calf injury. The Rams will face the Washington Commanders this Sunday with Josh Wallace and Emmanuel Forbes expected to cover Watson's position on the roster.
