Injured Los Angeles Rams LB Ernest Jones Expected to Play vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Los Angeles Rams entered this season expecting big things from linebacker Ernest Jones, and he's delivered.
Through six games, Jones leads the Rams in tackles (63) and is tied with defensive tackle Aaron Donald for the team lead in tackles for loss (eight). Both of those marks rank tied for fourth across the NFL.
But entering this week's contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jones' status was uncertain. He's been battling a knee injury and didn't participate in practice Wednesday before being limited Thursday and Friday.
Like last week, Jones is officially listed as questionable - but also like last week, he's poised to suit up Sunday, according to coach Sean McVay.
"He's made good progress," McVay said. "He'll be listed as questionable but expect him to go."
Dec 8, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay celebrates with linebacker Ernest Jones (53) after the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at SoFi Stadium. The Rams defeated the Raiders 17-16.
The 23-year-old Jones has taken over as the leader in the middle of Los Angeles’ defense, serving as the green dot and top communicator.
Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris heaped praise on Jones, noting he's "done the most when it comes to coach to player communication."
Following in the footsteps of eight-time Pro Bowl linebacker Bobby Wagner, expectations were high for Jones, a third-round pick in 2021 who enjoyed a breakout campaign alongside Wagner last season.
In his first two seasons, Jones played in 32 games with 18 starts, collecting 175 tackles and five tackles for loss. He's already eclipsed his total for career tackles for loss and is on pace to reach 178 total tackles, also bettering his career mark.
Perhaps most impressive, Jones has maintained his high level of play while battling through what Morris described as typical in-season body pains - and his toughness, leadership and production has created exactly the profile the Rams hoped for.
"I couldn't say enough good things about what Ernest has done for us and what he's going to continue to do," Morris said.
And now, with McVay's statement, Jones appears poised to continue producing when the Rams host the Steelers at 1:05 p.m. PST inside SoFi Stadium.
