Sean McVay now has a golden opportunity to revive a recent 49ers draft bust

When it comes to the Los Angeles Rams' pass rush, there are high expectations from a group that shredded both the Minnesota Vikings and Philadelphia Eagles offensive lines for 16 combined quarterback sacks. That's pretty impressive, as the Eagles' offensive line was barely nudged out by the Detroit Lions for the top offensive line ranking in 2024.

The Minnesota Vikings were no slouches, ending 2024 as the 13th-ranked offensive line. For comparison purposes, the Los Angeles Rams ended the season as the 16th-ranked offensive line.

Still, the Rams lost some key players in the offseason. The team lost OLB Michael Hoecht, DL Bobby Brown III, and Neville Gallimore to free agency. To compensate, the team added Michigan rookie OLB Josaiah Stewart, as well as Ohio State rookie DL Ty Hamilton, and signed veteran DL Poona Ford. But when is there ever enough pass rush?

Well, if the answer is that there is always room for more, then the LA Rams have an opportunity to add insult to injury. Former USC edge rusher Drake Jackson was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in Round 2 of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 61st overall pick. In his first two seasons, Jackson showcased mixed results. Never earning a starting role despite a Round 2 selection, Jackson suited up for 514 defensive snaps and competed in 23 games.

Due to his limited workload, Jackson was limited to 21 tackles. But he did manage to get 6.0 quarterback sacks, and never missed a tackle for the 49ers. He put up 15 quarterback pressures, batted away eight passes, and allowed just one of two passes to find their mark. But after a devastating knee injury in 2023, Jackson has struggled to heal up to compete.

It was the lingering effects of that knee injury that has prompted the 49ers to sever ties with their former Round 2 rookie:

Now, what's next?

Since he was outright released, if claimed on waivers, he will have one year remaining on his rookie season. Even if he clears waivers, it's difficult to imagine more than a team-friendly one-year prove-it deal in Jackson's future.

Despite a devastating torn Patella injury, Drake Jackson vows to come back in 2025, stronger than ever:

"You all crazy if you do not think I am wreaking havoc on that field this year.”"

OLB Drake Jackson

His release from the 49ers creates a golden opportunity for Rams HC Sean McVay to revive the NFL career of an NFC West Division rival's draft bust. By many accounts, Jackson is an ideal low-risk, high-reward opportunity. But only if the Rams claim him. Or sign him if he clears waivers.

The Rams lost 6-foot-4, 267-pound veteran outside linebacker Michael Hoecht to the Buffalo Bills. How ironic would it be for the team to obtain a 6-foot-4, 273-pound outside linebacker in Drake Jackson to compete for playing time in the Rams' training camp?

Jackson is projected to be healthy enough for training camp. If he cannot earn a roster spot? The Rams gave him an opportunity to win the job and a roster spot. If he can earn a roster spot? The Rms roster just got an unexpected upgrade, courtesy of their NFC West Division rivals.

The Rams hold a three-game winning streak over the San Francisco 49ers. It's always in style to pile on the pain to the Niners. You know that if the situation was reversed, they would jump on the chance.

As always, thanks for reading.

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