Rams' offensive line ranked in top 5 of NFL for 2026 by ESPN analyst

Since starting 11 different offensive line combinations in the first 11 games of a disastrous 2022 season, the Los Angeles Rams have found a good level of consistency from that group. Alaric Jackson has turned into a high-end starter at left tackle, Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson are an excellent guard tandem and Coleman Shelton has solidified the center spot since returning in 2025.

Perhaps the biggest surprise has been Warren McClendon Jr.’s emergence at right tackle after replacing the injured Rob Havenstein last season.

Altogether, the Rams’ O-line looks like one of the best in football entering 2026 – at least on paper. ESPN’s Mike Clay graded every projected starting offensive line in the league and he ranked the Rams’ group fifth overall. There are no major weaknesses, either.

Here’s the rating for every player up front in L.A.

• LT Alaric Jackson: 7.9
• LG Steve Avila: 5.5
• C Coleman Shelton: 6.8
• RG Kevin Dotson: 7.4
• RT Warren McClendon Jr.: 5.7

Based on Clay’s analysis, Jackson is the best lineman for the Rams, with Dotson close behind. Avila and McClendon are considered the weakest, but even their grades are above-average.

The O-lines ranked ahead of the Rams in order from 1-4 are the Broncos, Eagles, Bears and Bills. All four teams in the NFC West have offensive lines ranked 15th or better, with the 49ers coming in at No. 7, the at No. 10 and the 15th overall.