LA Rams News: When Is CB Aqib Talib Returning To The Field?

The Los Angeles Rams have one of the most prolific offenses in the NFL, helping Sean McVay's squad jump out to a 10-1 record.

But the defense has had its ups and downs, raising worries ahead of the playoffs. Due to some depth issues, the secondary has had some poor performances, like allowing 346 passing yards to the New Orleans Saints in Week 9 and 413 passing yards against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11.

Help appears to be on the way. Veteran cornerback Aqib Talib, who spent two seasons under Wade Phillips with the Denver Broncos, could be close to a return. The 32-year-old, who underwent ankle surgery in late September, might be back as early as Sunday, when the Rams travel to Detroit to face the Lions at Ford Field.

Talib said he feels good but it's unclear if he is ready to play.

"The only way you're going to know if you're ready for a game is playing in the game," Talib said. "I'm as good as I can be as far as working out without playing, without competing."

The five-time Pro Bowler hasn't been on the field since Week 3, when the Rams held off the Los Angeles Chargers, 35-23. In the same game, star cornerback Marcus Peters was listed as day-to-day with a calf injury. Peters, a two-time Pro Bowler, has not been as effective as he was in 2017, when he was at mostly at full strength as a member of the Chiefs.

In place of Talib, the Rams have used Troy Hill, who has started seven games. Veteran Sam Shields has also seen extended playing time.

The Rams end the season with a road game against the Chicago Bears in Week 14, followed by a home date against the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles and then the hit road for the last time against the Arizona Cardinals. Los Angeles ends the season with a home game against the San Francisco 49ers.