Jun 11, 2026, 3:20 AM CUT

Alaric Jackson's Arrest Exposes Matthew Stafford & Rams' Biggest Insecurity

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 18: Matthew Stafford 9 of the Los Angeles Rams looks on after a touchdown during the NFC Divisional Round playoff football game on January 18, 2026 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 18 NFC Divisional Round Rams at Bears EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon260118062

On Monday, Los Angeles Rams' left tackle Alaric Jackson was arrested on a felony charge, per ESPN. While much focus is on his arrest, the bigger concern for the Rams is the risk to quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Rams are dependent on Jackson as Stafford's blindside protector. With uncertainty surrounding Jackson's availability, losing a starting left tackle is about as serious as it gets.

"If he's (Alaric Jackson) out for an extended period of time or suspended, that is a big blow to that Rams team," said Matt Dery on the Locked on Lions podcast. "Think about the Lions going into the season without Penei Sewell at left tackle. You wouldn't want that."

NFL, American Football Herren, USA Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals Dec 7, 2025 Glendale, Arizona, USA Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford 9 drops back to pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium. Glendale State Farm Stadium Arizona USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMarkxJ.xRebilasx 20251207_mcd_su5_145

Jackson is one of the most important yet underrated players on the team. The Rams rewarded him with a $57 million three-year contract extension in February 2025 because they saw him as a cornerstone protector for Stafford.

Replacing a proven left tackle is never easy, especially when backup options lack starting experience. Whenever the Rams' offensive line has been compromised, Stafford has faced intense pressure, disrupting Sean McVay's offense and passing game.

The veteran QB is at its best when playing on a clean pocket and giving on-time throws downfield. The additions around Stafford have strengthened, but those improvements don't matter much if the QB doesn't have the needed protection.

The Rams invested heavily in keeping Stafford upright, yet one unexpected absence can now threaten the whole plan.

The question is, if Jackson is unavailable due to legal proceedings, will the Rams pursue Taylor Decker?

NFL Analyst Urges Rams to Consider Taylor Decker To Protect Matthew Stafford

The Los Angeles Rams emphasize that the real issue of Jackson's absence could mean for the offensive line and, more importantly, for QB Matthew Stafford. Matt Dery, the analyst, suggested whether the Rams would consider Taylor Decker to replace Jackson.

"If Jackson's out a while and is unavailable, would the Rams consider Taylor Decker, who is sitting on the sidelines and awaiting a team to make him an offer," said Dery. "You could put Taylor Decker out there in LA to play with his former teammate Matthew Stafford, and I'm sure Decker would be very consistent and solid for the Rams."

Los Angeles could look for a veteran option rather than depending only on Jackson. Decker has spent a decade protecting QBs at a high level and remains one of the best tackles available.

He has been named to the PFWA All-Rookie team and a Pro Bowl selection. His familiarity with Stafford from their time together in Detroit could ease the shift.

For the Rams team in win-now mode, adding Decker can provide the stability needed on Stafford's blind side.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore