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It feels like every NFL team has been through the wringer with injuries this season. But as we hit the midway point, a few rosters are finally starting to turn the corner health-wise, including the Los Angeles Rams. Their final injury report before Sunday’s matchup with the 49ers actually looks, for once, pretty encouraging.

Terrell Owens holding Dude Wipes XL

Just six names showed up on the report, and most of them aren’t even real concerns. Tyler Higbee, Byron Young, and Alaric Jackson were all given rest days. Puka Nacua (chest) and Darious Williams (shoulder) appeared on the list but carry no game designation, meaning both are expected to play.

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The only real question mark is Jordan Whittington. The young wideout is dealing with a sore back that kept him out of Thursday’s practice and limited him on Friday. He’s listed as questionable, and while the Rams can get by without him, missing this game could be a setback for Whittington himself.

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He didn’t see a single target in last week’s 34–10 win over the Saints. Through nine games, he’s got 12 catches for 121 yards, and despite seeing big usage earlier in the year, including playing 92 percent of the snaps when Nacua was out in Week 6, he hasn’t managed more than three catches in a game.

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Still, the overall picture for the Rams looks about as healthy as it’s been all season. Head coach Sean McVay didn’t hide his relief when he met with reporters.

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“As far as injuries are concerned, we’re in good shape. Puka is going to be a full participant, as will Darious. J-Whitt, his back was sore. He’ll be questionable for the game, but we do expect him to be able to make it. We should be in good shape. We’re excited about it, and we’ll finish up the week the right way,” the head coach said.

So, while McVay sounds upbeat heading into the weekend, Kyle Shanahan is probably feeling the same way.

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The 49ers continue to get healthier

Don’t get it twisted. The 49ers also released their final injury report, and it still doesn’t look pretty. But considering everything they’ve been through this season, it looks a lot better. Sitting third in the AFC West is not a good look from their standards, but it might actually count as an accomplishment given everything they’ve been through.

In total, 16 players appeared on the report. The only two officially ruled out are wide receiver Ricky Pearsall and defensive end Mykel Williams. Pearsall hasn’t yet recovered from that lingering knee issue, while Williams has torn his ACL and will probably be out for the rest of the season.

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The bigger story is the group of nine players listed as questionable, including quarterback Brock Purdy. He’s been a regular on the injury report since Week 4, alternating between “out” and “questionable,” but this time feels a little different. After Kyle Shanahan’s comments Friday, there’s a growing sense that Purdy might actually be close to returning.

There was more encouraging news. Jake Brendel, Bryce Huff, Ben Bartch, Jauan Jennings, and Darrell Luter were all full participants in Friday’s practice and are expected to play. As for this week, Mac Jones will once again get the start. The 49ers listed him as a full participant, too, and Kyle Shanahan confirmed that he’ll lead the offense this week.

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Aryan Mamtani

1,067 Articles

Aryan Mamtani is an NFL writer at EssentiallySports with a strong analytical background and a deep passion for football. A former player and lifelong sports fan, Aryan brings a mix of football knowledge and emotional insight to his coverage. He specializes in breaking down complex plays, team strategies, and league dynamics in ways that resonate with both die-hard fans and casual readers. His work includes detailed analysis of games such as Sunday Night Football and storytelling that highlights the personal journeys behind the players. Aryan has experience in research and data analysis, which he skillfully incorporates into his writing. This approach allows him to deliver insightful, data-driven sports content that connects with diverse audiences through clear and engaging storytelling.

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Abhishek Kumar

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