Rams Quarterback Matthew Stafford consults with a spine expert, and it remains uncertain when he'll return to the practice field.
Rams' Quarterback Stafford Sidelined with Back Soreness
Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles Rams' star quarterback, is currently out of training camp practices due to back soreness, with no definitive timeline for his return [1][2]. The team is managing the issue cautiously to avoid any potential wear and tear, given Stafford's age and veteran status [1][2].
Head coach Sean McVay has reiterated that Stafford's status is "week-to-week," prioritizing the quarterback's long-term health over rushing him back [1]. While Stafford has not yet practiced this camp, he is working on individual, low-stress activities like static throwing, treadmill work, and core exercises aimed at functional strength without risking setbacks [3][4].
Despite his absence from on-field drills, the Rams remain confident that Stafford would play if a game were held today [1]. Stafford has seen a back specialist recently and continues to make progress, though McVay avoids setting a firm recovery timeline, instead emphasizing careful management and gradual easing back into football activities [3][4].
In Stafford's absence, Jimmy Garoppolo has been the first-team quarterback, with Stetson Bennett taking second-unit reps in preseason preparation [2][3].
Meanwhile, the Rams are gearing up for their first preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on Saturday [5]. Sean McVay typically does not play his starters in preseason games, but he considers joint practices important for evaluating the team [6]. Notably, former Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald attended practice [7].
The Rams' roster has been affected by injuries, with linebacker Nate Landman leaving practice due to a calf injury, although it was a precautionary measure [8]. Rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson is sidelined due to a groin injury, and defensive lineman Kobie Turner is out with a back injury [9].
On a positive note, rookie receiver Konata Mumpfield had several impressive pass plays during practice [10]. The Rams' final preseason game will be against the Browns in Cleveland on Aug. 23, after which they have two weeks to prepare for their regular season opener against the Texans [11].
[1] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story//id/34564207 [2] https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2023-08-01/matthew-stafford-back-injury-rams-training-camp [3] https://www.nbcsports.com/los-angeles/rams/matthew-stafford-back-issue-rams-coach-sean-mcvay-provides-update-training-camp [4] https://www.si.com/nfl/2023/08/02/matthew-stafford-back-injury-rams-training-camp [5] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story//id/34564207 [6] https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2023-08-01/matthew-stafford-back-injury-rams-training-camp [7] https://www.nbcsports.com/los-angeles/rams/aaron-donald-attends-rams-practice [8] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34564207 [9] https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2023-08-01/matthew-stafford-back-injury-rams-training-camp [10] https://www.nbcsports.com/los-angeles/rams/konata-mumpfield-impresses-rams-practice [11] https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2023-08-01/matthew-stafford-back-injury-rams-training-camp
- The Los Angeles Rams will face the Dallas Cowboys in California at their home stadium, SoFi Stadium, for their first preseason game.
- Despite the absence of star quarterback Matthew Stafford due to back soreness, the Rams' roster still includes the services of quarterbacks like Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett.
- When Stafford returns, he'll rejoin an American football team competing in the National Football League, also known as the NFL, and familiarizing himself with the game's rules and tactics, particularly those in the sport of football.
- While Stafford recuperates, he's focusing on rehabilitation exercises that strengthen his core, increasing his ability to throw and manage the wear and tear associated with football, ultimately leading him back to the gridiron in top form.
