GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 19: A detailed view of a Los Angeles Rams helmet prior to a game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 19, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers defeated the Rams 24-12. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Rams defensive back Duke Shelley has been marked for a return.
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Duke Shelley is poised for a comeback as the Rams have officially designated the defensive back for return from injured reserve, marking the beginning of his 21-day window for activation. Shelley had been on injured reserve since late November, recovering from a hamstring injury.
Having initially joined the Rams’ active roster before the start of the 2023 season following the preseason with the Raiders, Shelley participated in all 11 games for the Rams before his injury. Primarily contributing on special teams, he accrued eight tackles, two passes defended, and one fumble recovery during his tenure in Los Angeles.
Upon his return, Shelley is expected to face stiff competition for playing time, as Ahkello Witherspoon, Derion Kendrick, and Cobie Durant currently hold prominent roles in the defensive backfield. Additionally, rookie Tre Tomlinson is vying for the fourth spot on the depth chart.
The Rams, according to the Injured Reserve Return Tracker, have only one remaining IR activation. If that slot is filled by Shelley, the team will be prohibited from activating any more players for the remainder of the season.
