Plugs work great for nails and screws in the tread face, I've run more than I can count over the years. But if you get a sidewall puncture or tear, good luck. Nothing fixing that but a spare. Never go off-road without a spare.
Had the same situation here in Cali. Driver in front slammed on the breaks for a car crossing the intersection on red. I couldn't stop in time and rear ended them. I was put at fault for "following too close", which in all honesty I was for the 40 mph limit. Most of us "follow too close" if...
A slightly narrower tire isn't going to cause this issue. Like others have said, one of two things is mostly likely causing this. An alignment issue or it's the tire tread that just rides different than the other tread. You should get an alignment regardless if you lifted it any.
This is why I am here, lurking, twiddling my thumbs, watching from the driver seat of my Tacoma as the bugs get shook out. Wonder what colors they'll have in 2026?
"Do you think it would be worth an upgrade to RCV axles that Jeepers often upgrade to? https://www.rcvperformance.com/axlesets/ford/ford-bronco-rcv-axle-set.html "
Coming from the Toyota family myself, Toyota guys still blow those RCV's too. Front lockers and CV's don't always get along well.