Turf Show Times
Training camp for the Los Angeles Rams is set for July 25 at Loyola-Marymount University and due to recent happenings, the offensive line is under the microscope. The big guys are no longer toiling in anonymity, they will work under the bright lights.
The news of of Alaric Jackson shenanigans with the opposite sex have been the main focus and Rams fans eagerly await the adjudication of his future by the NFL. These headlines have dwarfed two other big stories, the Rams lack of depth on the offensive line and the post-2026 contract status of four starters.
The news is not all bad. The pavers of the NFL’s #1 scoring offense are back intact, including the primary backups. Sharp Football analysis, Pro Football Network, and FTN Fantasy have all come out with projections that have the Rams offensive line as a Top 5 unit for 2026.
L.A. currently has 14 offensive linemen on the pre-training camp roster. The snap status from 2025 its in parentheses.
Alaric Jackson (1051)
While some of his off-field decisions leave something to be desired, Jackson has been a solid investment at left tackle for the Rams. He was a standout college football player, starting every game he played, 42 of 42 at left tackle. Even though he had earned accolades, he went undrafted in 2021. L.A. looked at Jackson at guard and as swing tackle depth in his first two seasons. But because Joe Noteboom, the heir apparent to Andrew Whitworth struggled with injuries and inconsistency, Jackson won the blind side role in 2023 and did not look back. He has been a pivotal piece in the Rams success. Although he’s fought his own health problems, two separate bouts with blood clots, he’s worked hard to re-mold his body through weight room work, diet, and yoga.
Steve Avila (836)
Paired with Kevin Dotson, Avila gives the Rams a stellar pair of inside strongmen. It affords the Rams to keep a calming and cerebral center. In the final season of his rookie contract and although a move to center, his college position, didn’t work out, Avila has shown improved technique to go with his mauler play style. Keeping the former Round 2 draftee healthy has been a problem over the last two years, he’s missed 13 starts and parts of two other games. He needs a solid season to impress the Rams into a big raise.
Coleman Shelton (1120)
Although written off by fans as replaceable every season, there is no reason to think Shelton’s on the chopping block, even with his turning 31 years of age and contract expiring at the end of 2026. The L.A. braintrust loves his understanding of opposing defensive looks and command of the blocking calls. Tough and durable, he begins 2026 having started 60 straight games and playing in 96+ percent of snaps in that run. Shelton makes up for a lack of power and anchor with consistently solid technique and football IQ. Squares up with good posture...
