The Los Angeles Rams have taken a step toward getting rookie tackle Keagen Trost onto the field, opening a 21-day practice window for the player who has been sidelined since the preseason. Head coach Sean McVay has expressed optimism that the third-round pick could be available for game action as soon as this coming Sunday, marking a potential debut for the young offensive lineman.
While Trost is not yet officially activated from injured reserve, the opening of this practice window means the team now has less than three weeks to decide his fate for the remainder of the season. They must either add him to the active roster or he will be ineligible to play. The timing of this move appears to be beneficial for both Trost and the Rams, who are currently navigating a need for additional depth at the tackle position. This need has been exacerbated by the recent suspension of Alaric Jackson, leaving the team looking for viable options to shore up their offensive line.
Trost arrived in Los Angeles as a "fairly touted college prospect," a sentiment reflected in his selection by the Rams on Day 2 of the NFL Draft. Part of what made him a high-value pick was his perceived experience and versatility, traits that suggested he could contribute as a rookie. Beyond immediate impact, the team also saw potential for Trost to be a long-term asset, helping the Rams beyond the current season, possibly as far out as 2026. Like any player entering the professional ranks, he also possesses the raw potential to develop his skills at the NFL level.
Should Trost see game action this year, it would allow him to gain valuable experience in real-time while simultaneously contributing to his ongoing development for the future. This dual benefit is, of course, contingent on his ability to maintain his health, which has been a primary concern since his preseason injury.
The urgency surrounding Trost’s potential return aligns with recent comments from McVay, who acknowledged the team is exploring all possibilities to improve performance. Following the latest loss to the Buffalo Bills, McVay indicated that "all options were on the table" for player availability and team strategy. This suggests the Rams are looking to deploy any player who can suit up and potentially make a difference.
If Trost can indeed stay healthy and prove his readiness, he stands to become one of those crucial options for the Rams as they look to navigate the season. His role could even extend to bolstering the blocking on their field goal unit, a testament to the team's need for versatile and healthy personnel.
