BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Rams Suspend Two Players for PED Policy Violations, Shaking Preseason Preparations………………
June 3, 2025 — Los Angeles, CA
In a blow to the Los Angeles Rams’ offseason preparations, the team confirmed today that two of its players — wide receiver Drake Stoops and left tackle Alaric Jackson — have been suspended for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The suspensions were announced Tuesday morning following an internal review and NFL compliance findings.
Both players have been handed two-game suspensions, effective at the start of the 2025 regular season. While both remain eligible to participate in training camp and preseason contests, their absences during Weeks 1 and 2 of the upcoming campaign pose early challenges for a Rams team hoping to rebound from last season’s inconsistencies
Drake Stoops: Rising Hope, Sudden Setback
Drake Stoops, 25, is a name familiar to college football fans as the son of legendary Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops. After going undrafted in 2024, he signed with the Rams and spent his rookie season on the practice squad. Despite not playing a snap in a regular season game, Stoops made a solid impression in last year’s preseason — logging six catches for 55 yards and three first downs — and was expected to compete for a backup receiver spot this year.
Now, his budding NFL career is temporarily derailed.
“This is a disappointing development, especially for a young player trying to earn a roster spot,” said Rams head coach Sean McVay in a brief media statement. “Drake made a mistake, and he understands the consequences. We believe in accountability and professionalism. He has our support, but expectations must be met.”
Sources close to the team revealed that Stoops tested positive for a banned stimulant often found in over-the-counter supplements, underscoring a common issue where young players fall into noncompliance due to ignorance rather than malice. Nonetheless, the NFL’s strict liability policy leaves no room for excuses.
Alaric Jackson: A Key Veteran’s Absence
While Stoops’ suspension affects depth, the loss of Alaric Jackson has strategic implications. Jackson, 26, is one of the Rams’ starting offensive linemen and a cornerstone of their pass protection unit. Last season, he started 15 games and allowed just one sack over 968 snaps, earning him praise from both analysts and teammates.
His suspension for violating the PED policy comes as a shock, especially given his previously clean record. The NFL has not specified the substance involved, nor has Jackson issued a personal statement at the time of publication.
“Alaric is a leader in our locker room,” McVay said during Tuesday’s press conference. “This hurts — no question about it. But we have to be resilient. The next man up mentality applies here, and we trust the guys behind him.”
Veteran lineman Joe Noteboom is expected to slide into the starting left tackle role during Jackson’s absence, although offensive line depth has already been a concern for the Rams following offseason injuries and retirements.
A Bigger Conversation: PEDs in the Modern NFL
The NFL has increased testing and enforcement of its PED policy in recent years, with multiple suspensions issued in the 2024 season alone, including former 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. These policies exist not only to ensure competitive integrity but also to protect the long-term health of players.
Yet the latest suspensions reignite debate about the clarity of the banned substance list, the responsibility placed on players to monitor supplements, and the broader culture of enhancement in elite sports.
“There needs to be a league-wide re-education effort,” said a former NFL team doctor speaking anonymously. “Many of these substances are in everyday products, and players often don’t know until it’s too late.”
Looking Ahead
With Week 1 looming, the Rams must now adjust their depth chart and game plan without two players expected to contribute early in the season. While both Stoops and Jackson are eligible to return by Week 3, the opening stretch is critical, especially in a competitive NFC West division.
“These types of setbacks test your team’s character,” said Rams GM Les Snead. “We believe in the group we’ve built. This isn’t ideal, but it’s not insurmountable.”
As for Stoops and Jackson, their road back will require not just compliance, but restored trust — within the team, among fans, and across the league. The Rams have made it clear: while support will be given, standards will not be lowered
Byline: Jason Trent, NFL Correspondent – Los Angeles Times Sports Division
