Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to miss practice due to back issues
In the heart of Woodland Hills, California, the Los Angeles Rams' training complex buzzes with anticipation as the team gears up for the upcoming season. The focus, however, remains on their star quarterback, Matthew Stafford, who is currently recovering from an aggravated disc in his back.
Stafford, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, has been managing this serious issue throughout the 2025 preseason. He had not practiced at all through most of training camp due to the injury but recently returned to back-to-back full practice sessions as of mid-August, showing progress though still managing some discomfort.
The medical team is optimistic about Stafford's Week 1 availability, but the Rams organization is understandably concerned given the ongoing nature of the injury and Stafford's age (37 years old). To aid in his recovery, Stafford has received epidural injections and the team is exploring other treatment methods, but there is no evidence to suggest the use of the Ammortal chamber as part of his treatment regimen.
In his absence, Stetson Bennett IV stepped up, throwing for 188 yards and two touchdowns in Saturday's preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. The game, which took place in Inglewood, California, ended with a score of 31-21, with the Rams as the winners.
As the regular season approaches, Stafford is set to open with the Los Angeles Rams against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Sept. 7. Stafford led the Rams to a win in Super Bowl LVI against the Cincinnati Bengals, and with his career statistics placing him as the 10th all-time in touchdown passes and passing yardage, among active quarterbacks he ranks second only to Aaron Rodgers, expectations remain high for his return to form.
Stafford's career spans 14 seasons, starting with his selection as the first overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Georgia by the Detroit Lions. He has started all 222 regular-season games in his career, demonstrating a remarkable resilience and dedication to the sport.
As the Rams continue their preparations for the new season, the team and fans alike will be watching Stafford's progress closely, hoping for a swift and full recovery.
- Despite the ongoing injury issue, Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles Rams' star quarterback, is set to lead the team in their opening game of the 2025 season against the Houston Texans on September 7.
- In the absence of Stafford during the preseason, Stetson Bennett IV assumed the role, displaying impressive performance with 188 yards and two touchdowns in a game against the Dallas Cowboys.
- The Rams' training complex in Woodland Hills, California, is abuzz with anticipation as they gear up for the new season, with the focus primarily on Stafford's recovery from an aggravated disc in his back.
- Stafford, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, has returned to back-to-back full practice sessions, showing progress, though still managing some discomfort.
- The NFL draft, the annual event where NFL teams select newly eligible football players, played a significant role in Stafford's career, as he was the first overall pick by the Detroit Lions in 2009.
- The Rams organization is understandably concerned about Stafford's ongoing injury and his age (37 years old), but remains optimistic about his Week 1 availability.
- As the 2025 American football season unfolds, the Los Angeles Rams, under their coach, will be aiming to replicate their Super Bowl LVI win against the Cincinnati Bengals, with Stafford's return to form being crucial to their success in NFL games.