Rams' Sebastian Joseph-Day needs surgery, out indefinitely

Rams’ Sebastian Joseph-Day needs chest muscle surgery and will be out indefinitely

Rams defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day cools off on the sideline.

Staff Writer

Nov. 5, 2021 12:43 PM PT

Rams nose tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day, a starter for three seasons, will have surgery for a chest muscle injury and will be out indefinitely, coach Sean McVay said Friday.

“That’s a big loss for our football team,” McVay said before practice. “Whether or not that means he’ll return at any point this season, I think we’ll have to see after the surgery. ... That’s a bummer for us.”

Greg Gaines is expected to start Sunday in Joseph-Day’s place against Tennessee at SoFi Stadium.

Joseph-Day, a fourth-year pro, was injured on Oct. 24 during the Rams’ 28-19 victory over the Detroit Lions. He did not play in last Sunday in the 38-22 victory over the Houston Texans.

Gaines started, made four tackles and was credited for sharing a sack.

Joseph-Day, a sixth-round draft pick from Rutgers in 2018, had started nearly every game the last three seasons. He has a career-best three sacks. Joseph-Day can become an unrestricted free agent after the season.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is nursing back stiffness, and receiver Robert Woods, who has a foot injury, would be limited in practice Friday, McVay said. Neither veteran practiced Wednesday or Thursday this week, but McVay said he was not concerned given their experience.

Cornerback Jalen Ramsey was not scheduled to practice because of a knee issue but is expected to play Sunday, McVay said. Cornerback Darious Williams, who has been sidelined for three games because of an ankle injury, also is expected to play.

Outside linebacker Von Miller is nursing an ankle injury and could be a game-time decision, McVay said.

Linebacker Ernest Jones also was not scheduled to practice because of illness, McVay said, but is expected to play Sunday.