Sam Bradford Injury: How Is the Rams' Star QB's Throwing Hand?

The St. Louis Rams were hailed by many to win the NFC West this season behind the play of star second-year quarterback Sam Bradford, who had an impressive rookie campaign last season, despite not having much talent around him.

One game into the season, the Rams' chances of winning the division may have just taken a hit.

Bradford left Sunday's 31-13 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles with a nerve injury to his right forefinger, which just so happens to be one of the fingers Bradford uses to throw the ball.

Oddly enough, Bradford jammed his finger on the extended left hand of Eagles defensive end Juqua Parker as he followed through on a pass.

I guess you could say it hit a nerve for Rams fans. Oh, I'm just so witty.

Here is a look at Bradford's injury and if he's expected to miss any time.

Injury Update

Per the Sporting News, the X-rays on Bradford's finger were negative, and he vows to play against the New York Giants in Week 2.

While Arian Foster declaring he will play must be taken with a grain of salt, Bradford appears to be a good source in this case, with ESPN reporting, "It's an upset, based on what we know, if Bradford misses the game."

It's not a serious injury. The problem is it may impact Bradford going forward given it's his throwing hand. Complicating the matter is he faces a physical Giants' defense in Week 2 and he was sacked a whopping five times in Week 1. There's the potential for him to injure his finger even more.

When's He Ready to Play?

Unless Bradford seriously re-aggravates his finger, it's unlikely that he will miss Week 2. The question going forward is going to be if he can still play at a high level with a bothersome finger. If he gets through Week 2 unscathed, he should be fine, but there's the potential for further damage against the Giants.

Regardless, the Rams would probably rather play with a Sam Bradford who is 50 percent than anyone else under center who is fully healthy. Bradford's the type of player who can still play very well and adapt under unbecoming circumstances, as he showed last year.

Fantasy Impact

I expect Bradford to miss few throws on Sunday against the Giants, not only because of his finger but the opponent, as well. For now, unless you don't have a viable backup option, I would keep him on the bench to make sure he's OK.

Bradford has the ability to improve on his numbers from last season in 2011 (3,500 yards, 18 TDs, 15 INTs), but I don't see him posting starter's numbers in Week 2, particularly at New York. He appears destined to become a star in the league, but right now it's best to err on the side of caution.

Another thing to keep a track of is how well the Rams' offensive line protects the young gun. They continue giving up five sacks per game, he may go the way of Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, and I don't mean guide the Rams to the NFC Championship Game.

What They're Saying

“I just couldn’t really move it."

That's what Bradford said about his finger, the reason he left the field on Sunday against the Eagles, per the Sporting News.

That certainly doesn't sound great right now and is more cause for concern that he will be limited in the next week or two.

But if Bradford can get through the next couple of weeks without re-aggravating his injury, he should still post solid numbers this season if the Rams can improve their protection.

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LIFE HURTS. THIS INJURY UPDATE BROUGHT TO YOU BY DICKIES.