Turf Show Times
The Los Angeles Rams could soon be facing a significant question along their offensive line. Starting left tackle Alaric Jackson was arrested this week on suspicion of felony domestic battery, an incident that could potentially trigger discipline under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. Jackson has already served a previous suspension during his NFL career, making the situation even more noteworthy as the league evaluates the matter.
While the Rams will undoubtedly hope Jackson remains available, the organization must prepare for the possibility that he misses games during the 2026 season. Protecting quarterback Matthew Stafford’s blind side remains one of the most important jobs on the roster and could significantly alter the course of the Rams season. A season with Super Bowl aspirations. Here are several candidates could emerge as potential replacements.
If the season began tomorrow, David Quessenberry may be the safest option. The veteran offensive tackle has started games throughout his NFL career and provides valuable experience in a room that could suddenly become very young.
Quessenberry lacks Jackson’s athletic upside, but he understands NFL pass protections and has seen nearly every defensive look imaginable. The Rams signed him to provide depth and insurance, and a Jackson suspension would immediately test that contingency plan. While Quessenberry may not be viewed as a long-term answer, he is arguably the most experienced replacement currently on the roster.
Quessenberry re-signed with the Rams this offseason to a 1-year deal.
Third-round pick Keagen Trost could become the most intriguing option. Trost arrived in Los Angeles after a standout collegiate career that included stops at Morgan State, Indiana State, Wake Forest, and Missouri. He earned First-Team All-SEC and All-American honors during his final college season before becoming a Day 2 draft selection.
The Rams drafted Trost because of his size, movement skills, and potential to develop into a starting tackle. Throwing a rookie into the lineup immediately would carry risk, but the organization may decide that his upside outweighs the growing pains. If Trost performs well in training camp and preseason action, he could force the coaching staff to consider him sooner rather than later.
Trost is currently under contract (4-year deal) with the team after signing in early May.
A.J. Arcuri has quietly remained within the Rams organization for multiple seasons. Although he has spent much of his tenure developing behind established veterans, his familiarity with Sean McVay’s offense could work in his favor.
The coaching staff knows exactly what Arcuri can do and how he fits within their system. While he has yet to establish himself as a full-time starter, continuity and scheme knowledge often matter when injuries or suspensions force roster adjustments.
Arcuri is currently under contract by the Rams.
One name that could immediately surface in conversations is Joe Noteboom. The former Rams lineman knows the offensive system, has experience at left tackle, and has protected Stafford before.
A reunion would make sense if Los Angeles prefers a...
