After a 2022 season that noticed its offensive line decimated by accidents, the Los Angeles Rams knew they wanted so as to add extra depth and expertise for the offense to search out its means once more.
The Rams began rebuilding the offensive line after they took Steve Avila within the second spherical of the 2023 NFL Draft. Los Angeles then promoted Coleman Shelton and Alaric Jackson because the beginning middle and left sort out, respectively. The Rams additionally went out and traded for Kevin Dotson, who ultimately turned their beginning proper guard.
Jackson, specifically, caught out as the previous undrafted free agent held up nicely all through the 2023 season. Jackson was a rugged blocker within the run sport and did an satisfactory job of defending Matthew Stafford’s blindside.
The sort out was set to hit free company this yr, however the Rams noticed sufficient from him that they’re reportedly prepared to position a restricted tender on him, through Jeremy Fowler of ESPN:
#Rams plan to position a restricted tender on beginning left sort out Alaric Jackson, per sources – leaning towards authentic spherical tender ($3.116M), not formally determined. Both means, he’ll be underneath contract in L.A. in 2024.
Jackson acquitted himself nicely in 15 begins final yr. pic.twitter.com/KgqPmXvUdY
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 7, 2024
As soon as Los Angeles decides which degree of restricted tag they place on Jackson, groups will be capable to give him supply sheets that the Rams can both match or let him signal and stroll. The almost certainly state of affairs is that L.A. matches no matter Jackson would possibly get provided as a result of it might permit them to maintain the continuity of their o-line.
The Rams already made certain to lock up one core member of the group as they signed Dotson to a three-year extension, guaranteeing he doesn’t make it to free company. Retaining Jackson would go a protracted in guaranteeing the offense as an entire continues to excel in head coach Sean McVay’s extra bodily run scheme.
The final query alongside the offensive line now could be middle as Shelton voided his contract and is predicted to attract curiosity in free company. His state of affairs might be one to watch within the coming days.
Rams prioritizing backup quarterback after Matthew Stafford damage in 2023
After investing extra of their offensive line, the Rams want to determine what to do about their backup quarterback state of affairs. Stafford was compelled to overlook one sport final season on account of a thumb damage, and the group struggled mightily with out him.
This offseason, Les Snead acknowledged that L.A. is prioritizing on the lookout for a high quality backup quarterback.
