Keagen Trost's return to practice comes at perfect time for the Rams

Rookie tackle Keagen Trost returned to practice on Thursday after beginning the year on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury in the Los Angeles Rams' preseason opener. With starting left tackle Alaric Jackson suspended for a game, Trost's return couldn't come at a better time.

Of course, even if Trost is active on game day against the Arizona Cardinals, veteran David Quessenberry is already slated to start in Jackson's place. Trost would be more bench insurance at a position where the Rams have very little. Bill Murray is the only other tackle on the 53-man roster. 

Head coach Sean McVay is optimistic that Trost will be available in some capacity, though, and that is excellent news. 

Keagen Trost's Week 6 return would help Rams navigate Jackson suspension

That wasn't the only positive news at the tackle position this week. Jackson's suspension, which he earned by punching Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb after Monday's loss, was reduced from two games to one after his appeal. That means the Rams will only have to rely on Quessenberry this week, with Jackson back in the lineup in Week 7 against the Raiders. 

By that time, the rotation could be at full strength assuming Trost has no setbacks. While unlikely to see much action, it will be good to get Trost back on the practice field on a weekly basis, keeping him ready to step in if need be. 

The thing about Quessenberry is that we just don't know how he'll look. He played all of 18 offensive snaps for the Rams last season and hasn't started a game since 2023. Although he appeared in ready-made shape during training camp and a participant on special teams, live regular-season reps on the line of scrimmage are a different matter altogether. 

There's no telling how his 36-year-old body will respond against Cardinals starters. Ideally Trost will be prepared to come on in relief if Quessenberry suffers an injury. If not, Murray would be the next man up. 

Aside from potentially having Trost back for depth in Week 6, it's also a positive in itself simply having the rookie third-round pick able to resume his development after such a disappointing setback in the preseason. 

The Rams haven't exactly gotten much from their 2026 draft class. Trost has spent the whole year on IR. Tight end Max Klare hasn't seen a target, logging one snap on offense and half a dozen on special teams. Receiver CJ Daniels hasn't even been active yet. Which is a bummer. 

Quarterback Ty Simpson is dutifully taking notes as the inactive emergency QB3 on game days. Nose tackle Tim Keenan III was cut from the practice squad to make room for since-released linebacker Jamie Sheriff. 

Now that Trost is healthy, at least, perhaps he can start grinding his way into a role if the opportunity arises. No matter what, it'll be a plus if he can suit up on Sunday for emergency depth. 

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