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2nd Rams Offensive Lineman Ruled OUT vs Falcons
NFL: Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams face a critical Week 17 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, with their offensive line significantly impacted by injuries. Head coach Sean McVay confirmed that right guard Kevin Dotson (ankle) will miss Monday night’s contest, and now left tackle Alaric Jackson (ankle) is officially inactive, according to Adam Grosbard of the OC Register.

“D.J. Humphries will step in at left tackle,” McVay said. “We’ll adjust as needed, but our guys are ready to handle it.”

Linchpins of the Rams Offense


2nd Rams Offensive Lineman Ruled OUT vs Falcons 1 Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Dotson and Jackson have been foundational to the Rams’ offensive efficiency. Both started 15 of 16 games prior to injuries and were instrumental in the team’s balanced attack this season. When healthy together, the Rams’ offense averaged:

  • 6.25 yards per play
  • 4.57 yards per carry on 414 attempts
  • 7.54 yards per pass attempt on 538 throws
  • 19 total sacks allowed
  • 0.134 EPA per play

Dotson has excelled in pass protection, allowing pressure on only 2.4% of snaps, while Jackson had a 5.2% pressure rate. Their absence will test the depth of the Rams’ line and the ability of replacements to maintain efficiency.

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Running Game Insights


2nd Rams Offensive Lineman Ruled OUT vs Falcons 2 Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Dotson’s role on the right side has been pivotal in the running game:

  • A-Gap Right
    • Kyren Williams: 27 attempts, 134 yards (4.96 YPC), 2 TDs
    • Blake Corum: 11 attempts, 32 yards (2.91 YPC), 1 TD
  • B-Gap Right
    • Williams: 49 attempts, 205 yards (4.18 YPC), 1 TD
    • Corum: 19 attempts, 64 yards (3.37 YPC), 2 TDs

Williams has been most effective through the A-gap, but both backs generate positive EPA when running behind the right side. The absence of Dotson and Jackson could limit these efficiencies and force adjustments in play-calling.

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Falcons Pass Rush Threat


2nd Rams Offensive Lineman Ruled OUT vs Falcons 3 Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Atlanta’s defense is poised to exploit the weakened Rams front. Rookie James Pearce leads the Falcons with 34 pressures and 7.5 sacks, while Leonard Floyd and Kaden Elliss add consistent disruption. Interior defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus contributes 7.5 sacks as well.

  • Pressure by alignment: EDGE 110, DE 39, DT 37
  • Blitz vs. non-blitz: 350 pressures on blitzes (29 sacks), 723 on standard rushes (21 sacks)
  • Down efficiency: Most productive on 1st downs (69 pressures, 20 sacks)

The Falcons excel at creating pressure early, which could challenge the Rams’ replacements at left tackle and guard.

What’s at Stake

With Jackson inactive and Dotson out, the Rams’ offensive line cohesion will be tested. Maintaining run and pass efficiency is critical to the team’s success in the closing games of the 2025 season. With a playoff spot secured and a potential NFC West title still attainable, protecting the quarterback and controlling the line of scrimmage will be key to navigating Atlanta’s aggressive front and sustaining late-season momentum.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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