Rams' Alaric Jackson Gets Suspension Cut After Punching Bills Player

Rams left tackle Alaric Jackson will miss one game instead of two after winning his appeal of an NFL suspension for punching Buffalo Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb. The league reduced the penalty Wednesday, Oct. 14, after Chubb publicly explained what he says he told Jackson before the punch.

Chubb explains what started the confrontation

The incident happened after Buffalo’s 37-34 overtime victory over Los Angeles on Monday, Oct. 12. Players were exchanging jerseys and speaking with opponents when Jackson and Chubb got into a verbal confrontation. Jackson struck Chubb in the face, knocking off his hat, and other players intervened.

Chubb later acknowledged that he initiated the exchange but disputed reports that he had made comments about Jackson’s mother.

“I’ve heard I was talking about his mom. That’s not true at all,” Chubb told reporters Wednesday.

According to Chubb, he was discussing how the Rams used extra blockers to contain Buffalo’s pass rush. He said he told Jackson that the strategy would not protect him if the teams met again. Jackson asked him to repeat himself, Chubb said, and the punch followed.

“Me personally, I learned I’m either going to have my hands up or wear a helmet,” Chubb said, according to NBC Sports.

Jackson wins appeal, but still misses a game

The NFL initially suspended Jackson without pay for two games under its unsportsmanlike-conduct rules. Hearing officer Derrick Brooks, jointly appointed by the NFL and NFL Players Association, reduced the punishment to one game.

Jackson will miss the Rams’ Oct. 18 game against the Arizona Cardinals and can return when Los Angeles faces the Las Vegas Raiders on Oct. 25. Chubb said he was glad he did not retaliate and risk his own suspension, adding that he had not heard from Jackson since the confrontation.

Rams turn to David Quessenberry

Coach Sean McVay said veteran David Quessenberry is expected to start at left tackle against Arizona while Jackson is out. The Rams also opened the 21-day practice window for rookie offensive lineman Keagen Trost to return from injured reserve, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Jackson’s successful appeal means the Rams will need a replacement starter for only one game rather than two.

References: Rams’ Alaric Jackson has suspension reduced to one game | Rams lineman Alaric Jackson has suspension reduced to 1 game for punching Bills’ Chubb