The Los Angeles Rams faced more than just a defeat on Monday night; they might also be losing their starting left tackle for the next game. After a dramatic 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills at SoFi Stadium, Alaric Jackson was seen throwing a punch at Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb.
This confrontation followed Buffalo’s thrilling comeback, where they blocked what could have been a game-winning field goal attempt by Harrison Mevis. Then, Josh Allen led the Bills downfield for their own winning kick.
As the Bills celebrated, Chubb and Jackson exchanged words, which escalated when Jackson approached him. After a brief face-off, during which Chubb apparently placed his hand on Jackson’s face, Jackson retaliated with a quick right hook.
But the situation didn’t calm down there. Video footage later showed Chubb confronting Jackson again as he left the field toward the locker room. Fortunately for everyone involved, Rams defensive end Myles Garrett, who is currently injured, stepped in before things got worse.
Chubb later commented, saying, “They always catch the second guy, so I let him swing and my teammates held me back and I just chilled.”
For Jackson, the timing is quite unfortunate. The 27-year-old previously had a run-in with the law in June for domestic violence, but his case was directed to a pre-filing diversion program, with no charges filed as of now. He also faced a two-game NFL suspension in 2024 for breaching the league’s personal conduct policy.
This incident raises concerns, especially with 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw already suspended earlier that day for a related issue. Jackson’s actions could invite further scrutiny from the NFL, and the league will need to decide if any disciplinary action is necessary. The Rams can hardly afford to lose their starting left tackle, especially after such a hard-fought loss.
