Rams Tackle Alaric Jackson Suspended Two Games for Post-Game Assault on Bradley Chubb

Key points

• Alaric Jackson was suspended for two games by the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct after striking Bradley Chubb in the face during a post-game scrum.
• The altercation occurred after the Rams lost 37-34 in overtime to the Buffalo Bills, with Jackson returning to the field after removing his pads.
• Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed that David Quessenberry will start at left tackle in Jackson's absence for Weeks 6 and 7.
• Jackson plans to appeal the suspension, though McVay emphasized the need for consistent decision-making and availability.
• The Rams released kicker Harrison Mevis and signed Blake Grupe from the Jets practice squad due to missed field goals and a blocked attempt in the loss.
• This is Jackson's second career suspension; he previously faced discipline in 2024 and a domestic violence arrest in June 2026 that resulted in no criminal charges.

Background

Alaric Jackson, 28, has been the Rams' starting left tackle since joining as an undrafted free agent in 2021. He has started 56 of 62 games in his career. Prior to this incident, Jackson was arrested in June 2026 on suspicion of felony domestic violence, though the case was diverted and no criminal charges were filed. In 2024, he was suspended for two games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy related to a lawsuit alleging non-consensual recording. The Rams' special teams unit, led by first-year coordinator Bubba Ventrone, has faced scrutiny for inconsistent performance, including a 70-yard kickoff return against the Bills.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports highlighted McVay's comments that Jackson must 'consistently do a better job' and noted the potential relevance of California's 'fighting words' law if local authorities become involved. NFL.com focused on the official league statement citing Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, and detailed the specific games Jackson will miss. The Los Angeles Times emphasized the immediate impact on the Rams' offensive line protection for MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford and the simultaneous roster changes at kicker, noting Mevis's poor performance in the loss. All sources agree on the two-game suspension and the replacement by David Quessenberry, but differ in emphasis: NBC Sports on the legal and coaching implications, NFL.com on the disciplinary rules, and the LA Times on the team's operational adjustments.

Why it matters

The suspension removes a key protector for the Rams' offense, forcing them to rely on a backup who has not started since 2023. It also highlights ongoing concerns about player conduct and special teams reliability within the organization. The incident adds to a pattern of off-field issues for Jackson, potentially affecting his long-term role with the team. For the Rams, the loss of Jackson and the change at kicker could impact their ability to compete in critical games against the Cardinals and Raiders.

What to watch

Jackson is expected to appeal the two-game suspension. If the appeal fails, he will miss the games against the Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders. The Rams will monitor the performance of David Quessenberry at left tackle and Blake Grupe at kicker. The NFL may also review the June domestic violence arrest for potential additional discipline, though no decision has been announced. Local authorities in California could potentially investigate the post-game altercation under 'fighting words' laws, though this is not yet confirmed.