Heading into Week 4, the Los Angeles Rams have yet to get a single offensive or defensive snap from one of their drafted rookies. The only first-year player who’s taken the field for them thus far is Wesley Bailey, an undrafted edge rusher out of Louisville.
That could change this week against the Philadelphia Eagles, though – even if it is just out of necessity.
With Terrance Ferguson unlikely to play due to an ankle injury and Colby Parkinson’s status also up in the air, the Rams could call on Max Klare to step up. The second-year tight end from Ohio State has been active for two games but has only played six special teams snaps and none on offense.
Sean McVay said on Wednesday that Klare could “certainly” see some playing time this week with the tight end room reeling. McVay spoke about what he’s seen from Klare up to this point.
“I’ve seen a guy that’s maximized a lot of opportunities in practice and done some things on special teams,” he said. “Got a lot better throughout the course of camp. Hasn’t taken quite as many reps just because of the top four guys for the most part being available. But this week will represent an opportunity for him to be able to get some reps and maybe get some good game-time action for us.”
Klare was a good receiver at Ohio State and can also block, making him a well-rounded tight end in the mold of Parkinson and Tyler Higbee. Ferguson is more of a dynamic receiver who needs work as a blocker.
The Rams expect to get Puka Nacua back this week so they won’t have to rely so heavily on their tight ends, but if Parkinson is out, Klare could get some looks alongside Higbee and Davis Allen in 13 personnel.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams rookie Max Klare could get first snaps of season with TEs injured