After Shoulder Surgery, Will Jalen Ramsey Be Ready For Start of Season?

Rams all-pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey surprised many with a recent announcement of surgery on his left shoulder, reportedly to address an AC joint injury he played through last season.

The 27-year-old had an AC joint injury in his right shoulder as well last season, but there has been no word of a procedure to that side.

Ramsey is reportedly expected to be cleared by the start of the season in early September, but that depends on the type of surgery he had, according to David Chao, MD, also known as ProFootballDoc.

There are typically two types of surgeries to address AC joint injuries.

The first, and more straight forward surgery, is to shave off bone near the shoulder joint.

This surgery is referred to as a “clean up” procedure and usually carries a recovery of 6-8 weeks, which would have Ramsey back before Week 1, Chao said. 

It may still cause him to miss time in training camp, but that's likely not a concern for the Rams.

The second, and more complex, option is a repair or reconstruction, which consists of bringing the collarbone back closer to the shoulder.

This surgery carries a more complex recovery timeline and could easily stretch into the start of the season, Chao said.

While the type of surgery has not been specified, the fact that Ramsey and the Rams medical staff waited until late June to have the surgery likely means it was the easier procedure.

It is not abnormal for players and teams to wait and see if the issue will resolve on its own in the offseason. The issue with his right shoulder likely healed on its own.

The Rams and Ramsey plan on another deep postseason run and would not jeopardize that by putting off a necessary surgery until the middle of the offseason.

Expect the five-time Pro Bowler to suit up for the vaunted matchup against the Bills on Sept. 8.