The Los Angeles Rams enter their Week 3 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles as 3.5-point underdogs, but they’ll have an important piece of their defensive front back on the field.
Defensive end Braden Fiske, listed as questionable with an oblique injury, is expected to play. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, “DE Braden Fiske, who is questionable with an oblique injury, will play today against the Eagles, per me and Mike Garafolo.” Adam Grosbard of the OC Register added that Fiske was on the field pregame doing sprints, confirming his availability.
Fiske missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday and was limited on Friday, but head coach Sean McVay expressed optimism earlier in the week. “I think the expectations are we’re hopeful that [Fiske will] be ready to go,” McVay said via the team’s website.
Get your Puka-Flex T-Shirt Here
The 2024 second-round pick is coming off a standout rookie season in which he recorded 8.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and finished third in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. Through two games this season, Fiske has logged three tackles and a fumble recovery. He has yet to register a sack in 2025, but his presence is critical against Philadelphia’s respected offensive line.
Fiske played only 13 snaps in Week 2’s win over the Titans, failing to record a stat, but he’ll have another opportunity Sunday to make an impact.
On the offensive side, the Rams are expected to be shorthanded. Left guard Steve Avila is considered doubtful due to an ankle injury that already sidelined him last week. If Avila can’t go, Justin Dedich is in line for another start.
Tight end Colby Parkinson (shoulder) also carries a questionable designation. McVay said of the situation: “Same thing with Colby, and then it’s a little bit less likely with Steve, but we’ll leave the options open.”
The return of Fiske is a boost for a Rams defense that will need to generate pressure against Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ offense. While Avila’s absence creates another hurdle for the offensive line, having a disruptive defensive presence back in uniform helps balance the equation.
Los Angeles faces a tough road test, but with Fiske active, they regain one of their most promising young defenders at a crucial time.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!