Jaylen Watson records first interception as a Ram despite dislocated shoulder
WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. — Safety Jaylen Watson recorded his first interception as a member of the Los Angeles Rams on Monday Night Football against the Buffalo Bills, overcoming a dislocated shoulder suffered earlier in the season. Watson injured the same shoulder in 2021 at Washington State and again in the first half of the Rams’ Week 3 game against the Denver Broncos. He missed Week 4 at Philadelphia to rebuild strength and returned for the Week 5 Monday night game. The play became a highlight of his return.
With 37 seconds left in the first half, the Rams sent cornerback Trent McDuffie on a blitz and Bills quarterback Josh Allen escaped the pocket and threw downfield toward Keon Coleman. The underthrown pass landed in Watson’s hands in double coverage and he returned it three yards as the Rams’ secondary ran into the end zone to celebrate. Watson told TheRams.com that he saw Coleman going deep, moved to the other side of the field and “just made a play on it.” He said Quentin Lake helped plan the post-play celebration.
The Rams’ training staff placed Watson’s shoulder in a harness for the game against Buffalo as he continued rebuilding strength. Watson told TheRams.com he still is regaining strength in the shoulder but that the injury did not appear to hinder his play against the Bills. The Rams listed Watson off the injury report heading into Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals. His prior experience with the injury informed the team’s decision to rest him and manage his recovery.
Watson added two passes defended on Monday night, raising his season total to five, and coach Sean McVay praised his toughness and team presence. “He’s tough, mentally and physically, and he’s a great teammate,” McVay said. Watson also noted his local ties, saying he played at Ventura College and that former junior college teammates still support him at games.
NFL Sports Blog Take
Watson’s interception delivered a timely turnover and served as a clear personal milestone in his return from a dislocated shoulder. He showed resilience and situational awareness while the Rams’ medical and coaching staff managed his recovery. The play should reassure the team about his playmaking ability, but the Rams will need to continue monitoring his shoulder as the season progresses.