Potential veteran fits for Rams at defensive tackle with A’Shawn Robinson out

As the LA Rams deal with the reality that free-agent addition, defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson will be out for an extended period, they may have to consider bringing in a veteran at the position.

The Athletic reported that Robinson is dealing with a cardiovascular issue. The Rams indicated Sunday that they believe Robinson, who signed this offseason from Detroit, could play at some point in 2020.

If the Rams want a veteran presence with Robinson out, there are couple of options. Both veteran defensive tackles Timmy Jernigan and Damon “Snacks” Harrison are available. While neither player may be a perfect fits, both are proven performers.

With the Rams reportedly having the second lowest amount of salary-cap room, they will likely only be able to offer the league minimum to both players.

Harrison, who played with Robinson with the Lions in the past two seasons, is an accomplished and he would take up a lot of space in the Rams’ 3-4 base defense. Harrison is 6’3, 350 pounds, hence his nickname. The 31 year old was named first-team All-Pro in 2016 while he was with the New York Giants.

Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

Jernigan is younger than Harrison at 27 and much smaller at 6’2, 295 pounds. He had a deal with the Houston Texans earlier this offseason, but it fell through.

Both players are worth the Rams’ time to consider as they navigate through the unexpected setback with Robinson.