The Los Angeles Rams finally have someone they can rely on at left tackle thanks to the emergence of Alaric Jackson in the last two seasons, but he’s not certain to remain with the team moving forward.
After re-signing as a restricted free agent last year, Jackson will now be an unrestricted free agent in March. That means he’ll be free to negotiate with any team if the Rams don’t sign him before the market opens.
Pro Football Focus doesn’t think the Rams should let Jackson reach free agency, calling him the one player they can’t afford to lose this offseason.
Jackson broke out as a legitimate force at left tackle for the Rams this season. His 78.4 PFF overall grade was the second-best mark on the team and a top-20 mark among all tackles. It’s tough to envision the Rams letting go of a player at a premium position who showed legitimate improvement at just 26 years old.
Jackson has gone from undrafted rookie to one of the best left tackles in the game, coming off his most impressive season yet in 2024. He only allowed three sacks all year and was a difference-maker at left tackle when he was in the lineup, providing excellent protection for Matthew Stafford.
The Rams would be wise to reward him with a long-term extension, keeping him in Los Angeles for several years to come. After struggling to find a replacement for Andrew Whitworth after he retired, the Rams have to make sure they don’t go without a steady left tackle in the future.