On Wednesday, the Rams pulled a fast one on their Week 4 opponents, the Eagles, by signing Maximus Pulley from their practice squad to the Rams’ active roster.
Rams coach Sean McVay provided insight into what went into that decision.
McVay said the Rams decided to add Pulley to help with special teams because the team will have to replace veteran running back Ronnie Rivers, who has served as a key contributor on special teams.
“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.”
After reviewing Pulley’s film from college, McVay said he really liked what he saw.
Pulley spent last year playing at Wofford College and had an impressive year at safety, tallying five interceptions, one forced fumble and 80 total tackles.
“We’ll welcome him with open arms and go from there,” McVay said.
It’s unknown if Pulley’s potential impact with the Rams will expand past a special teams role, but it is worth noting that starting safety Kamren Kinchens did not practice on Thursday due to a hamstring injury.
As it stands, Pulley is listed as the third safety for the Rams behind Tanner Ingle and Jaylen McCollough.
But if Pulley can find a way into the mix when the Rams play on Sunday night against the Broncos, he could impress his new teammates.
Pulley left a strong impression on the Eagles. Pro Football Focus listed him as the 12th-highest-graded safety when he logged 16 tackles and five stops during the preseason.
