Byron Young, a Pro Bowl edge rusher for the Los Angeles Rams who recorded a career-high 12 sacks in 2025, has missed the team's second training camp session due to a knee issue. Young told reporters after the practice that he is limiting his activity to avoid overuse and to let the knee heal properly.
He confirmed that the problem is the same one that troubled him during the 2025 campaign. Young appeared on the injury report multiple times toward the season's end and had to manage the discomfort throughout the playoffs.
Young's standout 2025 season saw him set new career highs in tackles, sacks, and quarterback hits. His absence in the playoffs, including limited playing time in the divisional-round game against the Chicago Bears, raised concerns. He played just 43% of the defensive snaps in that contest and did not participate in practices ahead of the NFC Championship Game.
Head coach Sean McVay stated at the time that he did not believe the knee issue would prevent Young from taking the field in the NFC Championship Game. Young ended up playing in the loss, though he was not at his usual 100% level. McVay also indicated that he did not expect Young to need surgery.
The Rams' defense underwent a major shift with the blockbuster acquisition of Myles Garrett, one of the NFL's premier pass rushers. Young was expected to thrive playing opposite Garrett, benefiting from extra attention by opposing offenses. However, with Young sidelined during camp, the team may need to rely more on Josaiah Stewart to handle more snaps.
Young's long-term health will be essential for the success of the Rams' revamped defense. His history of knee problems, combined with the physical nature of his role, has raised questions about how the coaching staff can manage his workload without risking further injury. With a defense built to be a title contender, keeping Young healthy has become a priority.
Young expressed confidence in the coaching staff, saying they have a plan to get him back on the field soon. He said, 'I practiced yesterday. We've got a plan to just take some time and get back out there in a couple of days.' His trust in the organization's approach will be key as camp progresses.
If Young remains healthy, his ability to complement Myles Garrett could be a game-changer for the Rams. His 12 sacks in 2025 ranked first on the team, and his presence as a starting player in all 17 regular-season games made him a reliable cornerstone of the defense.
Still, the changes to the roster mean the team must balance Young's workload carefully. Stewart is available as an option, but the foundation of the new-look pass rush remains centered on Young and Garrett. The Rams are managing the situation with caution, hoping to avoid a repeat of the challenges Young faced during the 2025 playoffs.