The Los Angeles Rams are playing it close to the chest with quarterback Matthew Stafford’s current health situation. The 37-year-old veteran is dealing with back soreness and has now missed his second straight week of training camp.
When asked about Stafford’s status, head coach Sean McVay didn’t offer much clarity.
“There’s a plan,” McVay said, “but I’m not going to give a date. If it changes, that creates confusion and speculation.”
The Rams open the regular season on September 7 against the Houston Texans. While McVay insists the current approach is precautionary, fans and bettors are left wondering whether Stafford will be fully ready for Week 1.
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“We’re taking it week to week,” McVay added. “I feel confident this is the smartest route for him. We're expecting him to be ready, but we're staying cautious.”
Nothing new
Back soreness isn’t a new issue for the veteran QB. McVay noted that Stafford has managed similar discomfort in the past. The coach also clarified that there was no recent setback; rather, he admitted he probably should’ve labeled Stafford as “week-to-week” from the beginning.
Earlier this year, Stafford and the Rams restructured his deal, locking in $84 million over the next two seasons. That includes $44 million guaranteed for 2025. Stafford posted 3,762 passing yards and 20 touchdowns last season, his fourth year with the Rams.
This fall will mark Stafford’s 17th NFL season. He’s most remembered for leading the Rams to a Super Bowl win in the 2021 campaign.
Who is in?
Until Stafford returns to full action, the Rams are turning to another experienced signal-caller: Jimmy Garoppolo. The 33-year-old has been taking all the first-team reps at camp.
Garoppolo brings plenty of starting experience with past stints in New England, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. If Stafford isn’t cleared in time, Garoppolo is expected to take over under center in Week 1.
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