The Los Angeles Rams have yet to sign guard Steve Avila to a contract extension, despite the standout offensive lineman being eligible for a new deal this offseason.
The Los Angeles Rams enter the 2026 season as a favorite to be in the mix for the Super Bowl, however, they have some issues pending with contract-eligible players.
Los Angeles has plenty of important decisions to make this offseason, including whether to sign guard Steve Avila to a contract extension.
Members of their 2023 draft class are eligible for new deals, and while that class includes star wide receiver Puka Nacua, there is a strong argument to be made that Avila's situation may be even more pressing given ven the current circumstances surrounding the offensive line.
For starters, it’s unclear how the Alaric Jackson allegations will all play out.
Jackson was arrested last week on domestic violence allegations. Although he was released on bail, Jackson's long-term future with the Rams could ultimately depend on the legal process and any potential discipline handed down by the NFL.
With questions lingering at left tackle and with Avila’s versatility, securing him for the long term could provide Los Angeles with added stability and continuity along the offensive line as they navigate an uncertain situation.
Jackson’s future is uncertain, and even if things do work out in his favor, the Rams lack depth in the offensive line. A potential loss of Avila next offseason would be detrimental for the team. Outside of the five offensive linemen, which includes Jackson, the Rams are thin.
The backups include David Quessenberry, Beaux Limmer and Justin Dedich. On top of that, Quessenberry and Dedich will be free agents next offseason.
Six free agents the Rams will have next offseason are offensive linemen. Outside of Avila, that list includes Kevin Dotson, Coleman Shelton and Warren McClendon Jr., to name a few.
Their future with the Rams is unclear, but Los Angeles could at least secure one of their starters, most likely Avila, for next season and deal with the rest when the time comes.
Avila has proven to be a stellar offensive lineman in his time with the Rams and a vital piece for the team. In three seasons, he has played in 42 games with 40 starts and has done a tremendous job in keeping Matthew Stafford upright.
Last season alone, he played in 835 offensive snaps, committed only one penalty, and allowed one sack. Avila earned a 76.8 overall PFF grade in 2025, which ranked ninth among 81 qualified offensive guards.
More importantly, while Avila has spent most of his career at guard, his versatility may be his most valuable trait.
The 26-year-old has the ability to line up at multiple positions across the offensive line when needed, giving the Rams valuable flexibility. That versatility becomes even more important given the uncertainty surrounding the offensive line and reinforces why Avila should be a priority extension candidate for Los Angeles.
