OXNARD, Calif. — Speaking in his first press conference since departing SoFi Stadium on Sunday afternoon, head coach Mike McCarthy provided some big updates to the offensive line unit as the team works through injury and rookie acceleration for the latter stages of training camp.
Following a "significant toe injury" to left tackle Chuma Edoga that is expected to sideline him through the preseason and into the regular season, McCarthy said that rookie Tyler Guyton will step into an increased workload at the position with the first-team offense after suffering a setback due to an illness earlier in camp.
"Tyler is doing a good job," McCarthy said. "He'll continue to get more work, he'll be in there with the ones. We just want to keep moving forward with him. We thought he had good snaps. He just needs as many reps as possible."
In addition, the coaching staff is expected to continue exploring the versatility of second-year offensive lineman Asim Richards at left tackle in addition to work he's been receiving at left guard. As for right tackle bodies, McCarthy said he sees Matt Waletzko and Josh Ball staying on that side of the line.
"Obviously, playing both inside and outside," McCarthy said. "[Richards] will primarily get more work at the left tackle position…You can see the work that he's done in the offseason program and the benefits of that."
After a strong preseason debut, rookie Cooper Beebe is expected to pick up first-team reps at center starting with Tuesday's walkthrough practice.
"I really like what Cooper did," McCarthy said. "I thought he had quality snaps at center and guard. We're gonna give Cooper some opportunities here with the ones moving forward. He has earned that opportunity."
