Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles Rams’ star quarterback, remains sidelined due to an ongoing back injury, raising questions about his availability this season. After posting a strong performance in the 2025 NFC Divisional Round against the Philadelphia Eagles, Stafford’s future on the field has become uncertain as he continues to recover without a clear timetable for his return.
Strong Play in Playoffs Contrasts with Injury Concerns
During the divisional game, Stafford completed 26 of 44 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns despite challenging weather conditions. His impressive display confirmed his status as one of the league’s top quarterbacks, yet the injury that has kept him from practicing since signing a new contract poses a serious concern. After agreeing to a two-year, $88 million deal this offseason, Stafford has yet to participate in team practices due to his back issues.
Uncertain Diagnosis and Timeline for Recovery
The exact nature of Stafford’s back injury remains unclear, not only to the Rams’ medical staff but also to Stafford himself. Over the weekend, he consulted with back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins to better understand the condition and explore treatment options. However, the consultation has not provided a definitive timeline for when Stafford might return to play.
Head coach Sean McVay acknowledged the challenges in predicting Stafford’s recovery, stating,
“What I don’t want to do is set a timeline. I know he’s making good progress. He saw Dr. Watkins again. … Everything is in good shape.”
While McVay’s comments express hope, the ongoing specialist consultations suggest that the situation remains serious.
Backup Quarterbacks Managing Team Duties In Stafford’s Absence
With Stafford still off the practice field, backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and third-stringer Stetson Bennett are taking on starting responsibilities during training. McVay expressed confidence in their work but eagerly anticipates Stafford’s return. He remarked,
“Can’t wait to be able to get Matthew back out here leading the way, but in the meantime, Stetson and Jimmy are doing a really good job of continuing to get better and using these reps for their benefit.”
Despite Stafford’s lack of recent practice reps, his extensive experience and familiarity with the Rams’ system suggest he may not require much on-field preparation when ready to return. Still, the uncertainty surrounding his injury complicates the Rams’ planning for the upcoming stretch of the season.
Implications for Rams’ Season and Stafford’s Career
The ongoing ambiguity of Stafford’s recovery timeline leaves the Rams facing a difficult dilemma as they balance hopes for their star quarterback’s health with reliance on less experienced backups. Given Stafford’s pivotal role in the team’s success and his recent on-field impact, how soon he can resume playing will significantly affect the Rams’ prospects in the playoff race and beyond.
As Stafford continues working with medical specialists, the Rams and their fans alike remain cautiously hopeful that the quarterback will overcome his back injury and return to quarterbacking at a high level soon. Until then, the team must adapt to his absence while monitoring his progress closely.