The Los Angeles Rams enter the 2025 NFL season amid considerable uncertainty despite a 10-7 record and a playoff berth last year. Their postseason entry was secured by a rare tiebreaker, and concerns remain about their overall competitiveness. Much of the team’s success will rely on quarterback Matthew Stafford staying healthy and performing at a high level, which is critical to the Rams’ potential both as an NFL contender and a strong fantasy football option.
Stafford, recovering from back issues that sidelined him for the first two weeks of training camp, has since resumed practicing. Head Coach Sean McVay has expressed confidence that Stafford will be ready to start in the season opener against the Houston Texans. Along with star receiver Davante Adams, brought in to strengthen the passing game, Stafford’s condition is pivotal for the Rams’ hopes of overcoming last season’s struggles and making a deeper playoff run.
Offensive Weapons Poised to Boost Rams’ Fantasy Appeal
Los Angeles boasts an exciting roster that includes not only Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams but also rising talents such as Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Tyler Higbee, alongside defensive playmakers. This group offers the potential for multiple high-performing fantasy football players, but their individual success largely depends on Stafford’s ability to lead the offense effectively throughout the year.
Despite Stafford’s injury concerns, Michael Salfino of The Athletic remains optimistic about the Rams’ offensive prospects. He explains,
“I’ve refused to downgrade [the] Rams in my rankings all summer because of Stafford’s back issue. Sean McVay said he would be playing if it were the regular season. Stafford doesn’t need more than three weeks of practice to get acquainted with Davante Adams.”
—Michael Salfino, NFL Analyst
Salfino also highlights his confidence in key players:
“I’m well over market on Adams and sticking to that (WR13 for me). I’m down on Puka Nacua (he’s not a red zone receiver, for some reason, and now has one of the best TD makers ever beside him in Adams). I love Kyren Williams at his ADP (RB12; he’s my RB10). I expect the Rams to have a top-5 scoring offense.”
—Michael Salfino, NFL Analyst
The arrival of Adams to replace Cooper Kupp, especially in red zone situations, is expected to strengthen the offense significantly. However, Stafford must continue to prove his leadership value, especially as he embarks on his 17th season and seeks to justify the two-year, $84 million contract extension he recently signed with the Rams.
Stafford’s Role as a Determining Factor for Rams’ 2025 Outlook
The Rams’ offensive outlook and fantasy value hinge on Stafford’s health and consistent performance. Given his recent back troubles, the team is anxious yet hopeful that he can deliver throughout the season. If Stafford remains available and effective, it will not only elevate the Rams’ chances on the field but also enhance the fantasy football prospects of his teammates, from star receivers to supporting backs and tight ends.
This critical juncture makes Matthew Stafford the central figure in discussions about the Rams entering the new season, both for fans tracking the NFL playoff race and fantasy managers targeting high-impact players. The Rams’ offense has the talent to be among the league’s best, but the weight rests heavily on Stafford’s shoulders to convert potential into results as the 2025 campaign unfolds.