The Los Angeles Rams made a splash in free agency last March when they signed former Detroit Lions Pro Bowl offensive lineman Jonah Jackson to a three-year, $51 million contract.
Jackson was expected to be the Rams’ starting center during the 2024 season but a shoulder injury limited him in training camp. He was able to play in Week 1, but re-aggravated his shoulder the following game and got placed on injured reserve.
Jackson returned in Week 10 but was benched the following game for rookie center Beaux Limmer. Jackson did not play again until the Rams’ regular season finale, when they rested several starters.
After a disappointing first year with the Rams, Jackson has reportedly been granted permission to seek a trade, via ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler:
The #Rams have given guard Jonah Williams permission to seek a trade, per sources.
Former Pro Bowler in Detroit signed big free agent deal with L.A. last year but played four games due to injury and benching. Due $8.5M guarantee March 12. pic.twitter.com/tFem60xWJV
Jackson joins Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford as players who could be traded by the Rams this offseason. While it appears that Kupp will be playing elsewhere next season, the team is still hoping to rework Stafford’s contract and have him back as their starting quarterback
If the Rams find a trade partner for Jackson, they would save roughly $3.33 million against the salary cap in 2025. However, L.A. would still have a dead cap charge of $11.33 million.
The Rams could find more savings if they wait to trade Jackson until after the 2025 season. However, it doesn’t make sense to keep the veteran guard around as a high-priced backup.
In terms of trade compensation, the Rams would likely have to settle for a late-round draft pick from any team that agrees to take on Jackson’s remaining salary.
Rams expected to raise asking price for Matthew Stafford
While it remains to be seen if Stafford will return to the Rams next season, a recent report suggested that the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders all have legitimate interest in completing a deal for the veteran quarterback.
The Rams have been seeking a first-round draft pick in talks with other teams, but they are now expected to raise their asking price due to the significant interest Stafford is receiving.
Stafford is expected to meet with the Rams at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week to see if some common ground can be found. If not, there is a real possibility that the two-time Pro Bowler will be playing elsewhere next season.