Matthew Stafford, now in his 17th NFL season, is unlikely to play in tonight’s preseason matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. The 37-year-old quarterback has been sidelined for most of the training camp and preseason due to a persistent back injury that continues to hamper his readiness. Stafford did not participate in the Rams’ preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys, where Stetson Bennett took over under center.
Stafford missed recent jog-through practices and joint sessions with the Chargers but is scheduled to work out today despite his limited on-field activity. Rams head coach Sean McVay shared cautious optimism regarding Stafford’s recovery.
“Hopefully [his back] responds a little bit better,” McVay said.
Stafford had thrown 68 passes at the team facility last week but reported discomfort a few days afterward, which led the coaching staff to limit his practice time. Bennett’s strong preseason debut against the Cowboys, where he completed 16 of 24 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, positions him as a potential starter once again, especially since veteran Jimmy Garoppolo will not play in this camp opener.
Details on Stafford’s Back Injury and Team Response
The Rams continue to manage Stafford’s aggravated disc in his back, an issue that has created uncertainty around his availability for the upcoming season. McVay addressed the injury during a Thursday update, emphasizing the need for careful management of both the physical condition and the treatment plan.
“We’re trying to get our hands around this as well, so I don’t really have much more information other than think we’re trying some different things that are hopefully going to be in alignment with getting him back out on the field,” McVay said.
Despite speculation about potential surgery, McVay clarified that this has not been part of the discussion, signaling a preference for conservative approaches to avoid sidelining Stafford longer than necessary.
“That hasn’t been a conversation that we’ve had,” McVay said. “There’s been a lot of conversations about what’s the best method of how we want to approach it. That hasn’t been something that comes up.”
Implications for the Rams’ Preseason and Season Opening
The Rams are aiming to have Stafford ready for the regular-season opener against the Houston Texans. If he remains sidelined, Garoppolo is expected to start, with Bennett serving as a viable option based on his recent preseason performance. Tonight’s game against the Chargers presents a continued opportunity to evaluate the depth of the quarterback position and maintain momentum despite Stafford’s absence.
Stafford’s injury status remains the most significant variable for the Rams as training camp progresses, affecting the team’s preparation and strategy for both preseason evaluation and the regular season.