The Los Angeles Rams delivered some surprising news just 90 minutes before kickoff on Sunday night when they announced that Robert Woods would be inactive against the Bears. It wasn’t initially clear whether he suffered an injury at some point this weekend or exactly why he wouldn’t be suiting up, but it was revealed that he’s dealing with a personal matter.
It was a big loss for the Rams, but they were still able to come away with the 17-7 win at home. According to Sean McVay, the team didn’t know until “a couple hours before the game” that Woods wouldn’t be available.
He wouldn’t elaborate on what exactly Woods is tending to, saying he doesn’t know when the receiver will be back with the team.
“Yeah, it’s hard to say,” McVay said of when Woods will return. “I don’t want to give a finite answer on that. I most importantly want to be able to talk to him afterwards. I talked to him before the game, but want to be able to check with him and out of respect for his family, that’s why we’re just kind of leaving it at what it is.”
Woods has been the Rams’ most consistent receiver the last three seasons, playing a key role on offense. He’s not only a reliable pass catcher, but also the Rams’ best blocking wideout, leading the way for Todd Gurley countless times on the edge.
McVay should have more of an update this week as it pertains to Woods’ situation, but it’s clear the team is behind him during this time and supports him completely.
“It was a personal matter. That’s all we are going to say about that,” he said. “We love him, respect him, we are with him and his family all the way and that’s really where we will leave that at.”
[vertical-gallery id=625717]