After a disappointing free-agent acquisition, the Los Angeles Rams are granting Guard Jonah Jackson permission to seek a trade. According to the breaking news, Jackson’s stint with the team was short-lived. The Rams brought him on a three-year, $51 million deal in 2024 hoping to provide support for quarterback Matthew Stafford’s pass offense. However, this isn’t the first trade request coming from the Rams, they are putting Stafford and long-time veteran wideout Cooper Kupp on the trade block too. Despite that, it hasn’t been the easiest task for the organization to let go of Jackson since they benched him in favor of sixth-round rookie Beaux Limmer in their lineup.
The team can’t afford Jackson’s contract anymore since other members such as Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson have emerged as the starters. It wouldn’t be smart to overpay a backup who isn’t going to make an impact on the field, especially since head coach Sean McVay will probably build a new offensive culture in Los Angeles. The Rams are holding their breath to send him soon to a team that will accept his contract his guarantee money kicks in by March. 12. Los Angeles has been shuttling Jackson back and forth between the guard and center position during a confusing season on the upfront protection for Stafford.
All things must come to an end after impressing with the Lions during his first few seasons, the guard is undoubtedly depleting. Jackson will hope to find these next five teams to accept him or face a release before any contract money kicks in.
Breaking: Rams Grant Pro Bowler Jonah Jackson Permission to Seek Trade
Possible Trade Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
It’s still possible the Chiefs could lose Guard Trey Smith this offseason despite optimism that he may return on a new contract. However, he doesn’t fit into Kansas City’s budget and he will likely sign a better deal elsewhere. Jackson might not be on the same level as Smith but the Chiefs could adjust his contract towards a heavy pay cut with no guarantees. The team doing this would give the team more room to spend after already investing big in Joe Thuney
Baltimore Ravens
Since the Baltimore Ravens never found dependable replacements for Kevin Zeitler or John Simpson, the Ravens could use this offseason to sign a capable lineman for a bargain. Patrick Mekari and Daniel Faalele are two fine offensive starters to open up the cracks for running back Derrick Henry to speed through. Perhaps, they may find a way to sign Jackson in a reduced deal.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers don’t necessarily need another lineman but since the team has money to burn, they could trade for Jackson just for depth. 2024 draft pick Joe Alt is a fine center but they could use Jackson as a rotational lineman. Head coach Jim Harbaugh must put quarterback Justin Herbert with the best offensive line to thrive in the passing game.
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans has one of the worst offensive lines and adding Jackson might put them in debt but it might be worth it for whoever becomes the new quarterback. Head Coach Kellen Moore will probably stick with Carr and for what it’s worth, it might be best to repair the offensive line and stick with the run while Alvin Kamara is healthy. Jackson won’t be god but it gives the Saints a new opportunity for something possibly special.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys need help to dramatically improve its offensive pass protection for quarterback Dak Prescott. After losing Zack Martin to retirement, the Cowboys could be interested in aggressively pursuing some of the free agent pass protectors under the new head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s offense. Jackson isn’t a Hall of Famer but the Cowboys could his experience on this young line.
