The Los Angeles Rams could be without their best cornerback when they face the Arizona Cardinals in Week 6, as Trent McDuffie is questionable after suffering a groin injury during Thursday’s practice. Head coach Sean McVay confirmed Friday that McDuffie would not practice, leaving his availability for Sunday’s divisional matchup uncertain.
McDuffie’s potential absence would be a significant concern for a Rams defense preparing to face Arizona’s passing attack. The All-Pro cornerback has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ secondary since arriving from Kansas City this offseason. If he cannot suit up, the Rams could need Josh Wallace and Emmanuel Forbes Jr. to take on larger roles alongside Jaylen Watson.
With McDuffie sidelined, Los Angeles would lose its most reliable option in coverage at a time when containing opposing receivers remains critical. Arizona could look to exploit the matchup, forcing the Rams to adjust their coverage schemes and potentially provide additional safety help over the top. That help then takes away from being able to cover an immediate threat like Trey McBride.
McDuffie has arguably been the best cornerback in football this season. According to Pro Football Reference’s advanced defensive statistics, opposing quarterbacks have completed just seven of 21 passes thrown his way, totaling 42 yards and no touchdowns, while McDuffie has recorded one interception. That production translates to a remarkable 22.5 passer rating allowed. Pro Football Focus also ranks him third among 104 qualified cornerbacks with an 85.2 overall defensive grade and second with an 88.7 coverage grade.
Those numbers illustrate just how difficult McDuffie has been to attack. Losing him against Arizona could force the Rams to rethink their defensive approach, making his status a must watch heading into Sunday’s game.
