Rams activate running back Buddy Howell from practice squad

With Darrell Henderson’s status for Sunday still a question, the Los Angeles Rams have activated RB Buddy Howell from the Practice Squad. While head coach Sean McVay has stated Henderson will be a game time decision, Howell provides needed depth and additional assurance at the running back position.

Even if Henderson is not ready to go, I wouldn’t expect Howell to see much action against the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Sony Michel likely to see the majority of snaps, and being backed-up by rookie Jake Funk, Howell’s move to the active 53 seems to be a precautionary measure just in case the worst should happen.

Buddy Howell was originally an undrafted free agent signed by the Miami Dolphins after the 2018 Draft. Howell was later cut on September 1st of that year only to be immediately picked-up by the Houston Texans the next day where he remained until being waived on August 31st, 2021. Exactly two years after first being claimed by Houston, Howell was signed to the Los Angeles practice squad on September 2nd.

In 45 games over the course of three seasons as a Texan, Howell rushed 21 times for a total of 74 yards. His 3.5 ypa may not be eye-popping, but his presence as an added insurance policy will help bolster an already thin Rams backfield in the event Henderson is unable to go.