Total Pro Sports
The Rams have hit a bump in their offseason plans, and it involves one of their most reliable offensive linemen. Alaric Jackson, who’s anchored the left tackle spot over the past two seasons, is facing a serious medical issue that could threaten his 2025 campaign.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Jackson, 26, is once again dealing with blood clots, the same condition that forced him to miss nine games in 2022. He bounced back from that setback and played well enough to earn a three-year, $56.3 million contract extension earlier this year.
But this recurrence has raised new concerns, and while Rapoport noted that Jackson is expected to play in 2025, his status remains uncertain as the Rams prepare for the season.
The Rams responded quickly to the situation. They signed veteran lineman D.J. Humphries on Thursday, bringing in a seasoned option to help stabilize the line if Jackson can’t go. Humphries, a former first-round pick in 2015, spent eight seasons with the Cardinals before joining the Chiefs in 2023. Though he played in just two games last season, he brings leadership and experience to a unit that suddenly needs both.
#Rams OT Alaric Jackson, a key member of the O-line who just signed an extension, is dealing with blood clots once again, per The Insiders. Similar to what he had in 2022.
While the belief is he’ll play in 2025, there are still questions. That explains the DJ Humphries signing. pic.twitter.com/H3KvgraB3P
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 13, 2025
Jackson suited up for Rams OTAs on May 28, showing no signs at the time of any setback. But with blood clots resurfacing, his immediate future is in question. The Rams haven’t announced any changes to his status, but their move to add Humphries signals how seriously they’re treating the situation.
Jackson joined the Rams in 2021 as an undrafted free agent out of Iowa and quickly earned a role on the offensive line. Over the past two seasons, he started 29 games and became a key figure in both the run game and pass protection. Coaches and teammates have praised his toughness and development since arriving in the league.
The Rams will open their season on September 7 against the Texans. Whether Jackson will be in the lineup that day remains unclear. For now, the team continues to monitor his condition, while fans hope he clears this latest hurdle and returns to form in time for Week 1.
