David Chao, MD
2 min read • October 04, 2023
Posted in
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp and Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor emerged as coveted stash options for fantasy football aficionados leading up to draft week. Kupp was put on the injured reserve list, while Taylor was put on the physically unable to perform list. But they are poised to make their return to the gridiron after a four-week hiatus. As we approach Week 5, both the Rams and the Colts have opened up their respective 21-day practice windows, sparking anticipation about their potential participation in the upcoming games.
Kupp, boasting a SIC score of 45, experienced a setback when he reaggravated a hamstring injury that had been plaguing him throughout training camp just one week prior to the NFL season's kickoff, ultimately leading to his placement on the injured reserve list. The hamstring injury was reported to be severe, which is why the Rams have wanted to give him time to heal.
This week, Kupp is expected to partake in practice, although the extent of his involvement remains uncertain. Rams head coach Sean McVay has expressed optimism about Kupp's prospects for Week 5, but our panel of doctors suggests that his chances of taking the field remain somewhat precarious. A more realistic target for Kupp's return might be Week 6, especially considering the emergence of rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua and the impressive performance of Tutu Atwell.
On the other hand, Jonathan Taylor's return appears to be on a firmer footing. Our panel of doctors gave him a 91 SIC score before his stint on the PUP, confirming his overall health. Taylor's near-trade to multiple teams was a testament to his physical condition, as players unable to pass a physical typically cannot be traded.
Taylor underwent a successful arthroscopic debridement procedure at the end of January, and he should have made a full recovery by now.
He’s expected to practice on Wednesday, hinting at his availability for Week 5. However, the Colts may choose to reintegrate him into the lineup gradually, possibly giving him an additional week to acclimate.
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Written by David Chao, MD
