Just when you thought the Los Angeles Rams’ offensive line depth couldn’t get any thinner, rookie Keegan Trost went down with a hamstring injury in their preseason opener. It is a brutal start for a team whose biggest weakness was already the positional depth on the offensive line. This third-round pick only got to play a handful of snaps before exiting the game early.
Rams’ Rookie OL Down, Complicating McVay’s Plans
Rams head coach Sean McVay sounds optimistic about Trost’s return, hoping he will be back before Week 1 against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia. But “optimistic” doesn’t change the fact he is out right now. Trost’s absence is a major setback, especially considering how complex McVay’s playbook and protections can get. David Quessenberry will now step in as the swing tackle, covering both right and left sides if needed. Trost really impressed in camp. He’s a high-upside backup who, at 25 in his rookie year, brings college experience and a versatile skill set. McVay even said after drafting him that Trost “can swing inside” and “could really play center if he had to.” That kind of versatility is gold, and they are missing it.
The Jackson Situation And An Already Fragile Line
This injury to a promising rookie backup is bad enough, but it highlights an even bigger problem facing the Rams’ offensive line: the starting tackles. Alaric Jackson and Warren McClendon Jr. are currently the starters, and they are quality options built to protect Matthew Stafford, who is known for standing tough in the pocket. However, Jackson is facing a possible suspension due to violating the league’s conduct policy following a domestic violence accusation. Even if Jackson somehow avoids a suspension, an injury to either starting lineman would leave the Rams incredibly vulnerable. Losing Trost, a versatile piece McVay touted for his ability to fill multiple spots, now ramps up the pressure immensely on an already fragile situation.
The Rams still have two preseason games and multiple practices to sort this out. But with Jackson’s potential suspension looming large, and Trost now sidelined, the margin for error on that offensive line is razor-thin. They need Trost back healthy ASAP, and clarity on Jackson’s status is critical to protecting Stafford and getting this unit settled for the season ahead.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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