Jonah Jackson called Rams benching humiliating but humbling
Jonah Jackson called Rams benching humiliating but humbling Jackson played just four games for the Rams after suffering injuries and being benched.
Jonah Jackson's time with the Los Angeles Rams lasted almost exactly one year. The veteran offensive lineman signed a three-year, $51 million deal in March of 2024 and was traded to the Chicago Bears in March of 2025.
In between, Jackson endured a season full of injuries and a benching that left him with just four games played — the fewest of his five-year career.
Jackson detailed his brief time in L.A. with NFL reporter Tyler Dunne of Go Long. Jackson broke his scapula (his shoulder blade) during training camp, re-broke it after two games, missed six games and was benched after one game.
Jackson, in Dunne's words, admitted that "the benching was downright humiliating" but that it was ultimately a blessing in disguise since it led to his eventual trade to the Bears and his ex-Detroit Lions coach, Ben Johnson.
"Initially, he admits the benching was downright humiliating," Dunne wrote. "The O-Line room is full of alpha males who want to play.
"Still, he believes he 'handled it like a champ' and did everything in his power to be a role model. After starting 63 games, practice was suddenly his gameday. He tried to make his Rams teammates better. '[Expletive] happens,' he says, 'and you just got to keep moving forward.'
"He's only 28 years old. Jackson also told himself that McVay did him a favor. Playing only 266 snaps last season certainly extended his career — he felt fresh after the season.
"As luck had it, the one coach who appreciates Jackson most took over the Bears and was willing to trade for him. The best possible outcome."
The Rams replaced Jackson with Beaux Limmer during the 2024 season, but free-agent acquisition Coleman Shelton is slated to start in 2025. Jackson now will start for the Bears' revamped offensive line with Johnson as his coach again and Caleb Williams under center.
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