Rams Sign Rookie Center Dylan McMahon from Eagles Practice Squad Following Steve Avila Injury
By Kenneth Arthur, September 10, 2024, 2:42 PM CDT
In response to the recent injury setback of starting center Steve Avila, the Los Angeles Rams have made a strategic move to bolster their offensive line by signing rookie center Dylan McMahon from the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad. This decision underscores the Rams’ urgency to fill the void left by Avila’s knee injury, which occurred during their Week 1 matchup.
McMahon, a promising prospect out of North Carolina State, was drafted by the Eagles in the sixth round of this year’s NFL Draft, securing the 190th pick. Despite a standout performance during the preseason and training camp, McMahon was surprisingly cut from the Eagles’ final roster, a move that was met with some astonishment given his strong summer showing. Victor Williams of “The Philly Pod” noted that McMahon’s release was a shock to many, highlighting his impressive summer work.
“Rams are signing sixth-round OL Dylan McMahon off the Eagles practice squad,” Williams tweeted. “McMahon had a strong summer, was a shock when he didn’t make the final roster — now heads to LA.”
Eric Galko, a respected draft analyst, praised McMahon’s potential, citing his “great career” at NC State, including a notable performance at the Shrine Bowl and a solid NFL Combine. McMahon demonstrated versatility throughout his college career, playing both guard positions and center, which contributed to his high regard among scouts. His adaptability could prove valuable for the Rams as they navigate the offensive line’s challenges.
The Eagles had a pressing need for additional depth at center following the retirement of veteran Jason Kelce. However, with Cam Jurgens established as the starting center, and potentially Landon Dickerson available to shift positions if necessary, McMahon was not retained on the 53-man roster. This left him vulnerable to being signed by another team, like the Rams, who were in search of reinforcements.
In the meantime, the Rams have also placed wide receiver Puka Nacua on Injured Reserve (IR), which opens a spot on their roster, aligning with the need to bring in McMahon.
Steve Avila, who suffered a sprained MCL in Week 1, could be placed on IR as well, potentially sidelining him for at least four weeks. Initially, the Rams had planned to start Jonah Jackson at center, but he is now positioned back at left guard. Beaux Limmer, drafted just 27 spots after McMahon, is slated to start at center in Avila’s absence, while McMahon will provide additional depth and competition.
The Rams’ signing of McMahon represents a proactive step in addressing their offensive line concerns and ensuring they have sufficient depth as they move forward in the season.
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