Rams TE Tyler Higbee ready for return from torn ACL: ‘These guys…read more
Tyler Higbee, the Los Angeles Rams’ tight end, is set to return to the field this Sunday against the New York Jets after nearly a year of recovery from a torn ACL. Higbee suffered the injury during a Wild Card playoff loss to the Detroit Lions in January, but now, fully recovered, he’s ready to contribute as the Rams push for another postseason appearance.
Reflecting on his lengthy recovery, Higbee shared his gratitude for the team’s training staff, who he credits for helping him get back to full strength. “It’s been a long journey,” Higbee said, acknowledging the ups and downs of the rehab process. “Some days aren’t always the best, but I just kept showing up and going to work. Our training staff is the best in the business, and they’ve helped me get to this point.”
The Rams have managed to perform well even without Higbee, overcoming early season injuries and rebounding from a 1-4 record to stand at 8-6, currently leading the NFC West. However, the tight end position has still been a significant gap in the offense. In Higbee’s absence, Colby Parkinson has emerged as the primary tight end, leading the group with 29 catches for 288 yards and one touchdown. Hunter Long and Davis Allen have also contributed, but their combined total of 42 receptions and 387 yards still falls short of the production Higbee provided in 2023. Last season, Higbee registered 47 catches for 495 yards and two touchdowns, numbers that far exceed the current tight end group’s output.
While the Rams plan to ease Higbee back into action, his return adds a vital weapon to an offense that ranks ninth in the league in passing. His reintegration into the lineup will be crucial as the Rams aim to make a playoff run. Despite the long recovery process, Higbee’s excitement for his return is palpable. “My energy levels will be there,” he said. “Maybe a little higher than normal. These guys may have to throw some water on me to take the fire out of my hair.” For Higbee, it’s not just about his return to football, but about being part of the team’s effort to secure another postseason berth.
