The Rams are already dealing with a depth problem up front, and Justin Dedich’s injury could make it a bigger one than it first appears.
Los Angeles is set to bring back all five of its starting offensive linemen for 2026, but that comes with some built-in complications. Four of those starters are in the final year of their current contracts, and left tackle Alaric Jackson is facing a multi-game suspension to begin the season. That leaves the offensive line in a spot where every camp rep matters.
Dedich was never projected to replace Steve Avila at left guard or Kevin Dotson at right guard, but he was the clear fallback option for both spots. Now that he has landed on Injured Reserve because of a non-football incident, the Rams may have to dig deeper into their options just to keep the interior line stocked and make sure the right players are getting work in training camp.
For a reserve, Dedich has already logged real NFL mileage. The 2024 undrafted free agent has played in 29 games over the last two seasons and made nine starts, which is a meaningful body of work for someone in his role. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the rotation, and it is not one that gets fully covered by the addition of eighth-year veteran Blake Hance.
The Rams now have to sort out who absorbs Dedich’s snaps and who gives them the best insurance behind the starters. Beaux Limmer is the most obvious candidate, though he had a rough season last year.
Dylan McMahon could factor in as well, but he profiles more naturally at center. Hance is in the mix too.
Wyatt Bowles and newly signed veteran guard Bill Murray will also compete for reps and likely see action in the preseason. Even so, neither appears positioned to make much of a move up the depth chart, with the Rams likely to reserve roster spots for more versatile and experienced players. At this stage, Limmer, Hance, and McMahon seem to be ahead of them in the interior competition.
Dedich’s 2025 season showed why he matters as a backup. He started six games, including four at left guard for Avila and two at right guard to finish the year in Dotson’s place, helping the Rams keep one of the league’s top offensive lines together through injuries.
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