The Los Angeles Rams have one of the top defensive lines in the NFL, but they’ll be playing shorthanded as defensive end Robert Quinn is not expected play due to a concussion, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Rams' DE Robert Quinn, listed as questionable for today vs. Patriots due to concussion, is not expected to play, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 4, 2016
Quinn was an All Pro in 2013 after collected 19 sacks, and he has averaged 0.75 sacks per game over the past five seasons. He battled knee and back injuries that landed him on the injured reserve last season, and has missed time with a shoulder injury earlier this season.
The Rams defense has forced a turnover in all but three games this season; two of those three games were when Quinn was sidelined with a shoulder injury against the Bills and Lions, and the Bills also ran for 193 yards. The three worst defensive performances by the Rams according to expected points include last week against the Saints, when Quinn left with a head injury, and the Bills and Lions game.
Quinn would have matched up with fellow 2011 draftee and Patriots left tackle Nate Solder. Solder will instead get a more favorable matchup against veteran Eugene Sims.
The Rams are also expected to miss WR Tavon Austin, who is listed as doubtful on the injury report, meaning that two of the Ram most expensive players are not expected to play on Sunday.