Rob Havenstein is the longest-tenured player on the Los Angeles Rams roster, and the team has opened a 21-day practice window that could bring the veteran right tackle back from injured reserve.
At a Glance
- Rob Havenstein may rejoin the Rams’ active roster after limited play this season.
- He has started 148 games over 11 seasons, including 13 playoff starts and two Super Bowls.
- The Rams (14-5) are set to face the Seahawks (16-3) for the NFC championship.
- Why it matters: His return could strengthen the offensive line as the Rams push for another playoff title.
The Rams announced on Thursday that they are allowing Rob Havenstein to participate in the first portion of the 21-day practice window. The move opens the possibility that the veteran right tackle could return from injured reserve before the team’s final regular-season game and the upcoming playoff match.
Havenstein’s Career Legacy
Rob Havenstein began his NFL career with the St. Louis Rams in 2015 and has been a cornerstone of the offensive line ever since. He has:
- Started 148 games, the most of any player on the current Rams roster.
- Played 13 playoff games, including starts in both Super Bowl runs.
- Been a starter at right tackle for the entire nine-year tenure of coach Sean McVay.
His leadership extends beyond the field. In a statement Thursday, McVay highlighted the intangible value Rob brings: “Rob and Tyler, these are rare humans,” McVay said. “They’re great football players, but they’re great leaders, and they have such respect from the locker room. … You look at the wisdom that Rob has in the meeting room to pour into Warren and really our offensive line as a whole. These are two all-time guys. These are legacy Rams. Obviously they’re special to me.”
Injury History and Current Status
Over the past two seasons, injuries have limited Rob to just 18 games. This season, he has played only 7 games, with his most recent appearance in the Rams’ 21-19 victory over Seattle at SoFi Stadium in mid-November. He was sidelined afterward by an ankle injury and knee bursitis.
The 21-day practice window, which begins on Thursday, allows Rob to warm up at the Rams’ training complex in Woodland Hills. While most of the past two months he has watched from the sideline, the brief open window gives him a chance to re-acclimate to game-speed practice.
Impact on the Rams’ Season
The Rams, currently 14-5, are preparing for a showdown against the Seahawks, who sit at 16-3, in the NFC championship game. The offensive line’s stability is crucial as the Rams look to maintain their offensive efficiency.
Warren McClendon Jr. has stepped in as the starting right tackle since Rob‘s injury. McClendon has performed well overall but made a few glaring mistakes in the Rams’ 20-17 overtime victory at Chicago last Sunday during the divisional round. A return of Rob could smooth out the line’s protection and blocking schemes.
Key Statistics
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Games started by Rob | 148 |
| Playoff starts | 13 |
| Super Bowl starts | 2 |
| Games played in last two seasons | 18 |
| Games played this season | 7 |
| Rams record (pre-practice window) | 14-5 |
| Seahawks record | 16-3 |
Coach McVay’s Perspective
McVay’s comments underscore the emotional and strategic importance of Rob to the Rams. He emphasized the veteran’s role as a mentor and the respect he commands: “Rob‘s wisdom in the meeting room pours into Warren and our offensive line as a whole.” McVay’s focus on legacy players signals that the team values continuity and experience as they approach the playoffs.
Key Takeaways
- Rob Havenstein is poised to return from injured reserve, potentially restoring the offensive line’s core stability.
- His career totals-148 starts, 13 playoff games, two Super Bowls-highlight his veteran presence.
- The Rams’ upcoming NFC championship game against the Seahawks will test the impact of his return.
- Coach McVay’s praise reflects Rob‘s leadership role, both on and off the field.
The 21-day window offers a narrow but significant opportunity for Rob to re-join the Rams. His presence could be a deciding factor in the team’s pursuit of a third Super Bowl title.
Final Thoughts
With the Rams’ record at 14-5 and the Seahawks at 16-3, every advantage counts. The potential return of a seasoned player like Rob Havenstein could provide the offensive line with the experience needed to secure victory in the high-stakes NFC championship game.
