The Los Angeles Rams got a bit of clarity on one of their most intriguing young defensive players.
Head coach Sean McVay confirmed on Monday that rookie OLB Josaiah Stewart is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol after what he called a “little incident” last week, but “doing good, making good progress,” per Stu Jackson of Rams.com.
Stewart, a third-round pick out of Michigan (No. 90 overall), has been viewed as a potential breakout piece in the Rams’ defense. He made an immediate impact in his preseason debut with a sack against the Dallas Cowboys.
Still, he did not play in the Rams’ final two exhibition games, including Saturday’s matchup with the Cleveland Browns.
Massive Opportunity Awaits for Rams
The Rams drafted Stewart with the idea that he could immediately contribute behind Jared Verse and Byron Young.
That trio represents the future of Los Angeles’ pass rush, giving defensive coordinator Chris Shula a mix of raw power, speed, and relentless energy on the edges.
McVay has praised Stewart’s motor and toughness throughout camp.
That energy is exactly why his current status is worth monitoring. Concussions are always tricky when it comes to recovery timelines, especially in the strange week after the preseason and before Week 1. But the fact that McVay labeled Stewart’s progress as positive is a good sign. If he clears the protocol in time, he should have an opportunity to suit up for the Rams’ Week 1 matchup against the Houston Texans.
Stewart wasn’t the only player McVay provided updates on Monday. Offensive lineman Alaric Jackson, who has been dealing with blood clots in his lower leg, is expected to fully participate in practice for the first time next week. That’s huge news for a Rams offensive line that needs stability heading into the regular season.
Jackson’s situation has been carefully managed, with the Rams taking precautions due to the long-term nature of the condition. McVay acknowledged it’s something new for him as a coach but praised Jackson’s professionalism and persistence.
Meanwhile, quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to trend in the right direction. The veteran has been a full participant in practice since returning last week and is on track to start against the Texans barring an unforeseen setback. McVay noted that Stafford has looked sharp and, more importantly, has bounced back well the mornings after practices.
Looking Ahead
The Rams open the regular season on Sunday, September 7, against C.J. Stroud and the Texans. While the focus will naturally be on Stafford and the offense, the defense’s ability to generate consistent pressure will be just as important in determining whether Los Angeles can return to playoff form.
For now, the Rams are taking it day by day with Stewart. The rookie has shown enough flashes to suggest he can contribute right away — provided he clears concussion protocol in time.
If that continues, Stewart could step on the field in Week 1 as a key part of the Rams’ edge rotation. For a defense looking to establish its identity in the post-Aaron Donald era, that progress couldn’t come at a better time.
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