Joe Noteboom missed last week’s practices with the Las Vegas Raiders because of an undisclosed injury, which has certainly hurt his chances of earning the starting job at left tackle or right guard. Sean McVay has been oddly vague about the situation, not even using the word “injury” when describing his absence.
On Sunday, McVay was asked if Noteboom’s injury is related to his Achilles tear from last season, but he said it isn’t. He also doesn’t know if Noteboom will practice this week against the Broncos, but he’s keeping his fingers crossed.
“I’m hopeful. It’s day-to-day. I have much better clarity on Cooper (Kupp) and on Derion Kendrick that they’re going to go,” McVay said. “With Joe, it’s kind of a fingers crossed. And then if not, then next week is where we anticipate the thumbs up, but I would love for him to be able to go if possible.”
Noteboom had been competing at left tackle with Alaric Jackson, but the Rams are giving him more opportunities at right guard now, which is where Tremayne Anchrum Jr. is playing. There’s no clear indication of whether Noteboom or Anchrum is the favorite to start at right guard, but the longer Noteboom is out, the worse his chances get.
The Rams will hold two joint practices with the Broncos this week before facing them in the final preseason game on Saturday night. With how much value McVay puts on these practices, it would really benefit Noteboom to be out there.
