The Rams got a timely defensive lift for Monday night’s game against the Bills: safety Quentin Lake is active after carrying a questionable tag into the final injury report.
Lake’s week started with missed practices on Thursday and Friday because of a hip injury, then he returned as a limited participant on Saturday. By the time Sean McVay addressed the situation, the Rams coach sounded encouraged.
“I feel like he's turning in the right direction and feels good so that's a positive for us.”
McVay had already framed the issue as minor, and the Rams clearly opted to be careful with a player who has been on the field for every defensive snap this season. “We're just being smart with him,” said McVay this week as Lake missed practice.
“He's played so many snaps. We just wanted to be smart.”
That caution makes sense given how much Lake means to Los Angeles’ scheme. His ability to move around the formation is a big reason the Rams can lean into the multiple-safety looks that defensive coordinator Chris Shula likes to deploy. According to Pro Football Focus, Lake has lined up for 67 snaps in the box, 71 at free safety and 41 in the slot, which gives Shula the freedom to keep Kam Curl, Kam Kinchens and Lake on the field together.
The production has matched the role. Through four weeks, Lake ranked second among safeties in impact plays with 12, according to Sumer Sports, and led all safeties with seven pass breakups.
He’s also allowed 4.2 yards per target in coverage, good for 10th. Heading into Week 4, he was the highest-graded safety by Pro Football Focus with an overall defensive grade of 91.1, and his 92.7 coverage grade topped the position as well.
The Rams will need all of that versatility against Josh Allen and the Bills. Cornerback Jaylen Watson is also expected back after missing last week with a dislocated shoulder, giving the secondary another piece as it tries to handle Buffalo’s passing game.
Los Angeles does have a few absences on Monday night. CJ Daniels, tight end Max Klare, offensive lineman Bill Murray and defensive lineman Larrell Murchison are inactive. Quarterback Ty Simpson is also inactive, though he will serve as the emergency third quarterback.
With Lake back in the lineup, the Rams get a defense that can stay closer to its preferred structure against one of the league’s most difficult quarterbacks.
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