Los Angeles Rams tight end Tyler Higbee sustained an ACL tear as a result of a contentious low hit by Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph during the wild-card loss on Sunday night, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
An MRI confirmed the injury on Tuesday, leaving the duration of Higbee’s recovery uncertain. There are doubts about his readiness for the commencement of the 2024 season.
The injury occurred in the fourth quarter of the Rams’ 24-23 loss to the Lions at Ford Field, where Higbee was attempting to make a catch across the middle of the field. Joseph’s helmet struck Higbee’s right leg directly, causing his right knee to bend awkwardly as he fell to the ground. Despite limping off the field, Higbee did not return to the game.
Joseph’s hit received criticism, though he defended himself on social media, expressing concern for Higbee and insisting on having no intention to cause harm. Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone also defended Joseph, attributing the move to the current rules and expectations of the league regarding tackling techniques.
Higbee, who had a quiet performance in the wild-card game with no catches and just one target, accumulated 495 yards and two touchdowns on 47 catches during the season. The 31-year-old, in his eighth season, had signed a two-year, $27 million extension with the Rams last fall, securing his tenure with the team through the 2025 season.
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