The Los Angeles Rams season hinged on the performance of their rebuilt offensive line — a unit that collectively costs the team almost 1/4th of the team’s cap space. And now, they will officially get two pivotal pieces back from injury.
On Monday morning, ahead of their game against the Miami Dolphins, the Rams announced that offensive linemen, Steve Avila and Jonah Jackson would be activated to the roster from the injured reserve. Avila has been out since Week 1 and Jackson since Week 2.
Rams Officially Activate Offensive Linemen, Steve Avila and Jonah Jackson
The Rams’ offensive line play with those two out of the lineup has been less than stellar. Matthew Stafford is being pressured on 24 percent of his dropbacks, the ninth most in the league. While he is 26th in sacks, he has been hit 35 times, second most in the league. The running game has also been less potent than last year. Kyren Williams has just 2.2 yards before contact, compared to the 3 yards he had last season.
Jackson was one of the team’s big offseason acquisitions, signing him to the third largest contract for any left guard. Avila was the Rams first pick (36th overall) in the 2023 NFL Draft.
The Rams’ offense got a bump a few weeks ago with the return of wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, not only did the Rams win both games since their return, but the team scored more than 20 points for the second and third time in those games.
Despite these players making their comebacks, they will have to wait at least another week to see the full complement of their intended starting lineup. Right tackle Rob Havenstein has been ruled out and Kevin Dotson is questionable to play.
The Rams’ intended starters have only played a total of 25 snaps altogether this season. The offensive line has played 37 snaps — all of which took place 10 weeks ago.
