The Rams made an unexpected roster move Wednesday ahead of their Week 4 matchup with the Eagles, promoting safety Maximus Pulley from the practice squad to the active roster.
Head coach Sean McVay later explained why Los Angeles felt the move was necessary.
The immediate need centered on special teams. The Rams must replace veteran running back Ronnie Rivers, a reliable contributor in that phase of the game, after he suffered an injury.
“It was just a freak deal where he was jumping up, and I think he got it when he was just jumping up to loosen himself up. It’s a four- to six-week injury. I’m bummed out for Ronnie,” McVay said. “We’re just a little bit lighter on the back end, so we figured, let’s bring him [Pulley] in.”
McVay said Pulley’s college film also helped convince the Rams that he was worth bringing up from the practice squad.
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Pulley played at Wofford College last season, where he turned in an impressive campaign at safety. He finished with 80 tackles, five interceptions and a forced fumble.
“We’ll welcome him with open arms and go from there,” McVay said.
For now, Pulley’s role appears likely to focus on special teams, though his opportunities could grow. Starting safety Kamren Kinchens missed Thursday’s practice because of a hamstring injury.
Pulley is currently listed as Los Angeles’ third safety, behind Tanner Ingle and Jaylen McCollough.
Still, a strong showing Sunday night against the Broncos could give Pulley a chance to make a lasting impression on the Rams’ coaching staff and teammates.
Pulley already caught the attention of the Eagles during the preseason. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the league’s 12th-highest-graded safety after he recorded 16 tackles, including five defensive stops.
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