The tension is starting to build in Los Angeles, and it is not just about preseason bragging rights. Matthew Stafford’s back has become the biggest question for Los Angeles Rams fans, coaches, and fantasy football players. With Saturday’s preseason Week 2 game against the Los Angeles Chargers looming, all eyes are on Stafford and what head coach Sean McVay has to say.
What Is the Status of Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford?
Right before the Chargers matchup, head coach Sean McVay provided some updates on Matthew Stafford’s health. According to ESPN NFL Nation Rams reporter Sarah Barshop, McVay said Stafford would work out on Saturday. When meeting with reporters on Thursday, August 14, McVay added, “Hopefully [his back] responds a little bit better.” He also gave further comments about the veteran’s health.
Sean McVay on Matthew Stafford’s back injury: “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.”
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) August 14, 2025
With Stafford working through an aggravated disc in his back, just moving around has turned into a battle for the 16-year NFL veteran. He is a Super Bowl champion known for his 59,809 career passing yards and 377 touchdowns. Stafford, as listed by StatMuse, also has two Pro Bowl selections and an NFL Comeback Player of the Year honor.
During the 2024 NFL season, Stafford completed 65.8 percent of his throws for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He wrapped up the campaign with a QBR of 93.7.
Meanwhile, with Stafford likely sidelined for the Rams’ preseason action, McVay will turn to backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to run the offense. Stafford did receive an epidural, which the Rams hope will help ease his pain and move closer to a return.
Will Matthew Stafford’s Injury Issues Concern Fantasy Football Players?
McVay has explained that keeping Stafford out of preseason contests is mostly a maintenance precaution. Still, his latest remarks might leave Rams fans and fantasy football players with some nerves ahead of the 2025 NFL season opener against the Houston Texans.
There is plenty of debate among fantasy managers about Stafford’s status. PFSN’s Jason Katz has weighed in with his own advice and questions to consider.
“Drafting quarterbacks coming off a back injury always involves more risk than fantasy managers would like,” Katz wrote. “Stafford’s age and the need for an epidural increase those concerns, but current signs point to him being on track for Week 1, provided there are no setbacks.
“His upside remains if healthy, but he goes so late in the drafts that he’s not an option in Single QB leagues,” Katz wrote.
Now, all the Rams can do is wait to see if Stafford leads the offense on September 7. McVay is hoping his veteran quarterback will be healthy and ready to go when the Houston Texans come to town.
