Jackson, who joined the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2021, has started 51 games. His 2025 season featured solid numbers that merit serious consideration in any top-tackle discussion. He earned a 82.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 11th among 89 qualifying offensive tackles. He posted an 84.3 run-blocking grade (10th) and a 74.8 pass-blocking grade (26th). While these figures do not immediately place him in the top five, they indicate a well-rounded contributor who should have been on the radar.
The expanded list of evaluators extended beyond a strict top-10, and several notable tackles received votes in various categories. Rashawn Slater appeared in the honorable-mention tier, and other respected names such as Spencer Brown, Armand Membou, Brian O’Neill, Bernhard Raimann, Ronnie Stanley, Kolton Miller, and Jake Matthews also garnered votes. Jackson, however, did not receive any votes in this broader poll.
One possible reason for Jackson’s absence is that some evaluators may weigh factors beyond pure season-grade numbers, such as traditional reputation, Pro Bowl selections, or first-round pedigree. Nevertheless, production should carry weight, and Jackson’s 2025 performance—coupled with his extensive starting experience—offers a compelling case for top-tier consideration. In 2025, he protected Matthew Stafford’s blind side for a Rams team that finished second in pressure rate allowed (23.8%) and second in clean-pocket rate (76.2%), according to FTN Fantasy’s offensive line analysis.
Warren McClendon Jr. offered a different narrative. He did not have the same starting experience as Jackson but delivered a standout 2025 grade. McClendon achieved an 83.5 overall PFF grade, ranking seventh among 89 qualifying tackles. His run-blocking grade was an impressive 86.7 (fifth), while his pass-blocking grade stood at 73.9 (30th). The challenge with McClendon’s case is that he played only 667 snaps as he stepped in for Rob Havenstein, which provided voters with less extensive film to assess compared with established starters who have played multiple seasons.
Despite the limited exposure, McClendon’s impact was evident as part of a Rams line that ranked first in adjusted line yards (5.50) and posted the NFL’s second-lowest stuff rate (12%), per FTN’s analysis. The unit’s overall performance helped the Rams achieve one of the league’s highest-rated offensive lines entering 2026, with his and Jackson’s previous season grades indicating strong individual contributions.
In summary, the Rams’ tackle duo delivered high-level play, contributing to a powerful running game and solid pass protection. Yet the top-10 offensive tackle rankings for 2026, as compiled by ESPN from the broader pool of evaluators, did not include either Jackson or McClendon Jr. The omission underscores the subjective nature of such lists, where factors like reputation, past accolades, and the volume of game snaps can influence perception, even when the underlying numbers tell a different story.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Rams remain confident in their edge protection and run-blocking schemes. The strong track records of their tackles suggest continued effectiveness, and the line’s performance will continue to be a focal point for evaluations as the season approaches. As with any ranking, the conversation will persist, but the Rams’ interior and exterior protection units have established a foundation that opponents will need to contend with in the upcoming campaign.
