Rams Sign Xavier Smith Amid Receiver Injuries

The Rams signed wide receiver and returner Xavier Smith off the 49ers’ practice squad after placing Jordan Whittington on injured reserve, opting not to acquire a receiver at the trade deadline. Los Angeles is short-handed with Davante Adams on injured reserve, Puka Nacua expected to miss several weeks with a knee injury, and tight end Terrance Ferguson dealing with a hamstring issue. Smith previously played for the Rams and is familiar with their offense; he caught 18 passes for 303 yards last season and is expected to provide receiving depth and help on special teams, though his role remains uncertain. The Rams waived Smith earlier this season after return struggles that included costly playoff punt errors.