Matthew Stafford enjoyed good protection from his offensive line last season but he’s taken a beating in the first two weeks of the 2024 campaign. With Steve Avila, Rob Havenstein, Alaric Jackson and Joe Noteboom all missing time already, Stafford has been under heavy pressure when dropping back to pass.
It’s not surprising given the constant shuffling up front, but something has to improve before Stafford joins his teammates on injured reserve from the litany of hits he’s been taking.
ESPN and Pro Football Focus’ analytics can give us an idea of just how bad the Rams’ pass protection has been through two games and it’s clear they’ve been the league’s worst in that department. Based on the chart below, they’re in a class of their own – and not in a good way.
Measures of pass protection from two independent sources pic.twitter.com/qNsdn3IVuo
— Computer Cowboy (@benbbaldwin) September 17, 2024
PFF’s grading has clearly been harsher on the Rams than ESPN’s pass-blocking win rate metric, but the point still stands: LA has been horrendous at protecting its quarterback.
Another chart using PFF’s pass-blocking grades on true pass sets (excluding play-action, screens and quick passes) shows the Rams are by far the worst in the league with a score of 39. The next-closest team is the Dolphins at 47, while the Colts are No. 1 with a grade of 80.
Pass block grade of offensive linemen in true pass sets only (excludes plays with less than 4 rushers, play action, screens, short dropbacks and time-to-throws under 2 seconds) pic.twitter.com/uPzuvzBexb
— Computer Cowboy (@benbbaldwin) September 17, 2024
The good news is that Alaric Jackson will return from his suspension this week, taking over at left tackle for Warren McClendon Jr. That was by far the Rams’ weakest spot in the first two weeks so hopefully Jackson’s return will help.
On the flip side, Jonah Jackson will miss at least four games with a shoulder injury so the Rams’ guard play could take a hit.