The NFL has suspended Los Angeles Rams left tackle Alaric Jackson for two games without pay following an altercation with Buffalo Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb on Monday night. The suspension was announced Tuesday, one day after the Bills defeated the Rams 37-34 in overtime at SoFi Stadium.
The incident occurred on the field as players from both teams were exchanging jerseys and small talk. According to the NFL’s official statement, Jackson violated Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which prohibits acts “contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship.” The league confirmed Jackson threw a punch at Chubb during the confrontation.
Jackson has the option to appeal the suspension. His absence could impact the Rams’ offensive line, particularly in upcoming games against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday and the Las Vegas Raiders on October 25. The team may adjust its lineup, with veteran David Quessenberry or right tackle Warren McClendon Jr. potentially moving into the starting role.
Chubb’s response
Chubb addressed the incident publicly, describing it as an emotional reaction. “It’s just emotions,” he said. “They always catch the second guy. So, I let him swing. And then my teammates held me back, and I just chilled.” Chubb did not escalate the situation further, and his composure was noted by multiple sources.
Jackson’s disciplinary history
This is the second suspension of Jackson’s career. In 2024, he served a two-game suspension for an unspecified violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Additionally, Jackson has faced legal scrutiny unrelated to the current incident. In June of this year, he was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence in West Hills, California. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office and the City Attorney declined to file formal charges. A separate civil lawsuit alleging Jackson recorded a woman without consent was dismissed earlier this year.
The NFL’s decision follows a review of video evidence documenting the altercation. The league has historically enforced suspensions for similar on-field altercations, including a one-game suspension for Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch in 2023 after he struck Kansas City Chiefs receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster post-game.
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and the team fell to a 2-3 record following the loss, which included a blocked field goal attempt in overtime. The suspension adds further uncertainty to the Rams’ offensive line ahead of critical matchups.