Rams' Sean McVay 'Loves' LB Ernest Jones; Extension Coming?

Rams coach Sean McVay: "We love him and I'm really grateful to have him on this squad.”

Los Angeles Rams linebacker Ernest Jones is playing some of the best football of his career.

Jones sacked the quarterback for the third straight game in Thursday night's win against the New Orleans Saints. He also recorded seven tackles, adding to his career-high total of 132.

Coach Sean McVay has noticed an improvement not just in the box score, but on the field as well.

© Gary A. Vasquez, USA TODAY

“He's a captain. He’s got such an energy. He's had great production, with what was asked about that earlier," McVay said. "And I love what he's doing and he has made that position more valuable than whatever the league values because of his impact not only the production, but as a player, but more importantly as a person in the way he elevates everybody around him. We love him and I'm really grateful to have him on this squad.”

Jones, a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, is in the third year of his four-year rookie deal, which means he is eligible for an extension this summer if the Rams wish to sign him long-term. 

Rams' McVay Shares Realization After Meeting Shohei Ohtani

The Rams haven't spent a lot of money on the inside linebacker position in the past, but Jones has been one of their better players on the defense. If anyone were to receive an extension or pay raise, Jones would certainly be a candidate.

If he continues along this trajectory into next season, the Rams may have a tougher time re-signing him as his price may skyrocket. So it may be in Los Angeles' best interest to sign him while the ball is in its court.