The Los Angeles Rams will see a notable shift along Seattle’s offensive line Thursday night, and it could tilt the matchup in the trenches. Seahawks left tackle Charles Cross has been ruled out with a hamstring injury for the pivotal NFC West showdown, forcing Seattle to reshuffle protection against a Rams front that has steadily gained momentum late in the season.
Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed veteran Josh Jones will start in Cross’ place, while offering little clarity on how long Seattle expects to be without its blindside anchor.
“I don’t have a timeframe for you,” Macdonald said. “We’re working through it.”
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Why Charles Cross’ Absence Matters for the Rams
From a Rams perspective, Cross being sidelined is significant. The former No. 9 overall pick has been one of Seattle’s most reliable linemen, starting 62 of 65 games since entering the league and providing steady protection all season.
In 2025, Cross allowed just two sacks across 423 pass-blocking snaps, elite production for a left tackle charged with protecting Sam Darnold’s blind side. His consistency in both the pass and run game has been a major reason Seattle’s offense has stayed on schedule. Although Cross struggled in Week 11 against the Rams, allowing a season-high five quarterback pressures.
The timing of the injury also stands out. Cross went down on the final play of Seattle’s 18-16 win over Indianapolis while blocking for Jason Myers’ game-winning 56-yard field goal, then failed to participate in any of the Seahawks’ estimated practices this week.
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Josh Jones: The Likely Target for LA’s Pass Rush
With Cross out, Seattle will turn to Josh Jones, a swing tackle who has primarily worked in spot duty and heavy packages this season. Jones has played 123 snaps across 11 games, most of them as a run blocker or extra lineman rather than a full-time pass protector.
While Jones hasn’t allowed a sack, pressure, or hurry in limited pass-blocking opportunities, the Rams will view Thursday as a chance to test that clean stat line. Facing a division rival on the road in a high-leverage game represents a very different challenge than rotational snaps.
For a Rams defense that thrives on creating disruption, Jones’ inexperience as a full-time left tackle becomes an obvious pressure point.
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A Potential Swing Factor in a Division Race
The Rams enter Thursday with their own injury questions, but Cross’ absence gives Los Angeles a clear area to exploit. Winning on the edge could force Seattle to adjust protections, limit its playbook, and keep Sam Darnold uncomfortable.
In a game that could decide the NFC West pecking order, the Rams won’t overlook an opportunity like this. If LA can capitalize up front, Seattle’s loss at left tackle may loom large by the final whistle.