3 reasons we all missed how LA Rams OT Alaric Jackson will shine in 2024

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Reason I: He puts in the work to ensure success

The thing about Alaric Jackson that simply does not get enough press and attention is the fact that he is passionate about his craft In 2023, Rams reporter J.B. Long talked about Jackson's dedication, citing how he is the first to show up on the field. That type of dedication is tough to ignore, and clearly paid off big dividends.

If practice time translates to playing time, Rams are going to have a hard time keeping OL Alaric Jackson out of the lineup. He’s been first on the field (along with the rookie specialist), putting in the lonely work, seemingly every day at camp.
— J.B. Long (@JB_Long) August 1, 2023

The Rams are avid enthusiasts when it comes to joint practices, if for no other reason than to measure the quality of the team's intended starters against the projected starters of other teams. Throughout his time with the Rams, Alaric Jackson has frequently stood out as one of the Rams offensive linemen who does well when going up against other NFL teams in joint practices and controlled scrimmages:

One-on-ones are pretty subjective. That said, Alaric Jackson and Coleman Shelton put together a couple nice reps. Crosby remains real tough for anybody on the right side to block.
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) August 17, 2023

What it comes down to in 2024 is that the same factors which catapulted Alaric Jackson in 2023 to take over as the starting left tackle for the LA Rams will launch him to become one of the best starting left tackles in the NFL for 2024. The guy allowed just one quarterback sack last season, despite the fact that he was a newly designated starter at the position for the team, has been lost on many fans.

And he as every bit as consistent and effective in post-season competition as well.

At what point do we believe what we see? After dominating in 2023, Alaric Jackson should be earning a bit more respect for 2024 than he is getting. It is clear that the Rams offensive line needed time to find its groove last season. But after the team slid Kevin Dotson in at right guard and the starters had some games to realign, they clearly began to gel over the final half of the season.

Alaric Jackson played a large role in that success, and will do so again in 2024. How do I know all of this? He is still a work-aholic who continues to perfect his craft, that's how.

As always, thanks for reading.

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