After a 2022 season that saw its offensive line decimated by injuries, the Los Angeles Rams knew they needed to add more depth and talent for the offense to find its way again.
The Rams started rebuilding the offensive line when they took Steve Avila in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Los Angeles then promoted Coleman Shelton and Alaric Jackson as the starting center and left tackle, respectively. The Rams also went out and traded for Kevin Dotson, who eventually became their starting right guard.
Jackson, in particular, stuck out as the former undrafted free agent held up well throughout the 2023 season. Jackson was a rugged blocker in the run game and did an adequate job of protecting Matthew Stafford’s blindside.
The tackle was set to hit free agency this year, but the Rams saw enough from him that they’re reportedly ready to place a restricted tender on him, via Jeremy Fowler of ESPN:
#Rams plan to place a restricted tender on starting left tackle Alaric Jackson, per sources – leaning toward original round tender ($3.116M), not officially decided. Either way, he’ll be under contract in L.A. in 2024.
Jackson acquitted himself well in 15 starts last year. pic.twitter.com/KgqPmXvUdY
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 7, 2024
Once Los Angeles decides which level of restricted tag they place on Jackson, teams will be able to give him offer sheets that the Rams can either match or let him sign and walk. The most likely scenario is that L.A. matches whatever Jackson might get offered because it would allow them to keep the continuity of their o-line.
The Rams already made sure to lock up one core member of the group as they signed Dotson to a three-year extension, ensuring he doesn’t make it to free agency. Keeping Jackson would go a long in ensuring the offense as a whole continues to excel in head coach Sean McVay’s more physical run scheme.
The last question along the offensive line now is center as Shelton voided his contract and is expected to draw interest in free agency. His situation will be one to monitor in the coming days.
Rams prioritizing backup quarterback after Matthew Stafford injury in 2023
After investing more in their offensive line, the Rams need to figure out what to do about their backup quarterback situation. Stafford was forced to miss one game last season due to a thumb injury, and the team struggled mightily without him.
This offseason, Les Snead acknowledged that L.A. is prioritizing looking for a quality backup quarterback.
