Xavier Smith had been promoted from the practice squad to the game-day roster in each of the Los Angeles Rams’ last three games, but that’s the maximum number of times a player can be called up in one season. Therefore, if the Rams wanted him to keep playing in games, they needed to sign him to the 53-man roster.
On Tuesday, they made what was a very easy decision official. They announced the signing of Smith to the active roster, as well as the return of Geron Christian to the practice squad; Christian was waived from the 53-man roster on Tuesday.
Additionally, Joe Noteboom returned to practice for the first time since being placed on injured reserve after the team’s Week 1 loss. He can be activated at any time now.
LA Rams Roster Moves:
• Signed Practice Squad Veteran OL Geron Christian
• Signed to Active Roster WR Xavier Smith
• Returned to Practice OL Joe Noteboom pic.twitter.com/MqcrLCIQnE— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) October 16, 2024
In three games this season, Smith has returned three punts for a total of 55 yards, none bigger than his 38-yard return in Week 3 against the 49ers to help lift the Rams to victory. He also caught two passes for 6 yards in Week 6, getting a small opportunity to contribute on offense.
Smith signing to the activate roster is a nice reward after he spent last season and the early part of this year on the practice squad, giving him a more permanent spot on the team moving forward.