The Los Angeles Rams made one of their first notable roster moves of the week, releasing second-year edge rusher Brennan Jackson on Monday, just a day before NFL teams must finalize their 53-man rosters.
Jackson, a fifth-round pick out of Washington State in 2024, was among the more underwhelming prospects from last year’s otherwise successful draft class. While Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, Kamren Kinchens, Josh Karty, and Beaux Limmer are all expected to play meaningful roles in 2025, Jackson never found his footing.
A Quiet Rookie Season
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Jackson played sparingly as a rookie, appearing in seven games and recording just three tackles and one pass defended. He failed to log a sack, quarterback hit, or tackle for loss in his 47 defensive snaps, and he spent much of last season on the inactive list.
The Rams hoped a strong offseason would help Jackson carve out a role, but despite flashes in the preseason, he didn’t do enough to secure a roster spot. He finished tied for second in the NFL in preseason sacks with three, yet his overall pass-rush efficiency lagged behind. On 63 pass-rush snaps, he managed only three total pressures.
McVay’s Roster Confidence
Following practice on Monday, head coach Sean McVay confirmed that the team has clarity on its final 53-man roster.
“Today’s practice it kind of confirmed,” McVay said. “This was the last physical evaluation that we had until we have to make cuts tomorrow. But yes, I do know what our 53 is going to be.”
That group will not include Jackson, who now heads to waivers. Given his limited production and uneven film, it’s unlikely a team will claim him and commit a roster spot, making him a strong candidate to return to Los Angeles on the practice squad.
What Jackson’s Release Means for the Depth Chart
The move strongly suggests that 2023 third-round pick Nick Hampton has secured his place on the roster. Hampton was held out of the Rams’ preseason finale, typically a sign of roster security. He joins Josaiah Stewart as a top reserve behind projected starters.
The ripple effect also benefits Desjuan Johnson, the 2023 Mr. Irrelevant, who has gained traction since last season’s finale. Johnson’s ability to play both inside and outside on the defensive line has made him an asset, and coaches appear to value his versatility over Jackson’s limited impact as a finisher.
As for Jamil Muhammad, his roster status remains unsettled, though the placement of Keir Thomas on injured reserve could help him stick around.
The Bigger Picture
With Jackson’s release, the Rams’ roster now stands at 78 players, meaning 25 more cuts are due before Tuesday’s deadline. While Jackson’s exit may qualify as mildly surprising given his preseason sack numbers, it also underscores how Los Angeles is prioritizing consistency and versatility over raw statistics as it finalizes its depth chart.
For Jackson, the door isn’t fully closed. A return to the practice squad remains possible, but for now, his future in Los Angeles is on hold as the Rams push forward with a clearer vision of their pass-rush rotation.
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