ANN ARBOR, MI - NOVEMBER 30: Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Jonah Jackson (73) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during a regular season Big 10 Conference game between the Ohio State Buckeyes (2) and the Michigan Wolverines (10) on November 30, 2019 at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Former Ohio State Lineman Jonah Jackson Traded to Bears
A former Ohio State Buckeyes standout is on the move, as the Los Angeles Rams have traded offensive lineman Jonah Jackson to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick. ESPN’s Courtney Cronin was the first to report the deal, which comes just one year after Jackson signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the Rams.
A Short-Lived Stint in Los Angeles
Jackson was initially brought in to help solidify the Rams’ offensive line, but injuries and positional changes derailed his tenure. A fractured scapula sidelined him after just two games in 2024, and upon his return in Week 10, he struggled to regain his starting spot. Ultimately, Jackson appeared in only four games last season.
The Rams’ decision to move Jackson from guard to center also contributed to his underwhelming performance. With the Bears, he is expected to return to his natural position at guard, which could set him up for a much-needed rebound in 2025.
A Low-Risk Move for Chicago
Jackson’s contract includes a $17 million salary for 2025, but none of it is guaranteed. That makes this trade a low-risk, high-reward move for the Bears, who are looking to retool their offensive line after a disappointing 5-12 campaign. Despite entering 2024 with playoff aspirations, Chicago failed to meet expectations and has now made the postseason just twice since 2011, with no playoff wins in that span.
With significant cap space available, the Bears could continue to be active this offseason as they look to build a more competitive roster.
From Columbus to the NFL
Jackson spent the 2019 season at Ohio State after transferring from Rutgers, starting every game and earning All-Big Ten honors. His performance in Columbus propelled him to the NFL, where he was selected by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Now, after stints in Detroit and Los Angeles, Jackson is set to begin a new chapter in Chicago, where he’ll look to re-establish himself as a reliable presence on the offensive line.
