The Los Angeles Rams are confronting a critical decision after head coach Sean McVay revealed that starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is dealing with a troublesome back condition that may sideline him for an extended period. McVay indicated on Monday that Stafford could be suffering from an aggravated disc, and the team is prioritizing his long-term health over immediate preseason appearances. This situation has intensified discussions surrounding the Rams’ quarterback options for the upcoming season opener and beyond, bringing Kirk Cousins trade rumors update into the spotlight.
Backup Plans Surface Amid Stafford’s Recovery Timeline
Reports suggest that Stafford’s type of back injury can vary in healing time, potentially requiring several weeks or even months before full recovery. With such uncertainty, speculation has emerged about alternate quarterbacks who could step in if Stafford is unable to start the season. According to Yahoo Sports insider Andrew Siciliano, backup Jimmy Garoppolo stands out as the leading candidate to fill the void. However, <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL analyst Tom Pelissero raised the possibility that McVay might explore acquiring Kirk Cousins, who remains with the Atlanta Falcons but commands a high annual salary of $45 million.
Despite the rumors, Siciliano pointed out that Cousins does not necessarily offer an upgrade over Stafford. He emphasized Garoppolo’s experience in reaching and winning Super Bowls, provided the quarterback stays healthy throughout the season. This debate highlights the Rams’ dilemma regarding whether to trust a familiar option or pursue a more expensive outside candidate.
Expert Perspectives on the Rams’ Quarterback Dilemma
During a recent conversation on the Rich Eisen podcast, Pelissero discussed the potential fit of Cousins with the Rams. He questioned whether Cousins, especially after recovering from an Achilles injury two years ago, truly improves the team’s outlook compared to Garoppolo, who, while not suited to start all 17 games in a season, brings proven postseason capability.
“If the Rams open up, I would think Kirk Cousins would be pretty excited about that opportunity. I would ask aloud, is Kirk Cousins, coming off an Achilles, now two years removed, that much of an upgrade over Jimmy Garoppolo? History would say Jimmy Garoppolo is not starting 17 games for you, regardless,” Pelissero said to Siciliano via the Rich Eisen podcast on Tuesday (Aug 12). [Timestamp – 23:00]
Siciliano recognized Garoppolo’s strengths but also acknowledged the challenge McVay faces in adapting to this unexpected situation.
“I think Jimmy Garoppolo is good. I also think there’s a part of Sean McVay—I have, of course, Jimmy Garoppolo is good. There’s a part of Sean McVay that doesn’t want to be forced into the situation. But he would embrace the challenge of proving that he can go to the Super Bowl with Jimmy Garoppolo,” Siciliano added.
McVay Holds Out Hope for Stafford’s Availability
The Rams’ 2023 season showed promise with a 10-7 record, largely attributed to Stafford’s leadership. McVay remains hopeful that Stafford will recover quickly and lead the team to another Super Bowl appearance. During preseason camp media sessions, he explained that the team would carefully monitor Stafford’s condition on a daily basis and avoid rushing the quarterback back prematurely.
When asked directly about the possibility of surgery, McVay confirmed that there is currently no indication Stafford will require an operation, though he cautioned that the situation remains fluid and could evolve.
Potential Impact on Rams’ 2024 Campaign
Stafford’s health will significantly influence the Rams’ strategy and prospects for the upcoming NFL season. Should his injury delay his return, Sean McVay’s confidence in Jimmy Garoppolo might determine whether the franchise pursues Kirk Cousins or opts to rely on the backup quarterback’s experience. With the season opener against the Houston Texans approaching, the Rams’ choices at quarterback will shape their push toward the 2025 Super Bowl and test their ability to adapt under pressure.