The tension at the Los Angeles Rams camp is real. The franchise left fans unsure when it announced that Matthew Stafford was dealing with back issues, and things only got murkier when he missed the first week of the preseason.
With the Week 2 clash against the Chargers approaching fast, nobody knows if the veteran quarterback will take the field Saturday. Everyone’s watching, waiting, and hoping for some clarity.
Will Matthew Stafford Play Against the Chargers Amid Back Issues?
Stafford has skipped practice lately, but Rams head coach Sean McVay gave fans hope following the team’s joint practice with the New Orleans Saints.
“He does, yeah,” replied McVay when asked if Stafford had a workout lined up. “He’s going to work out on Saturday. Hopefully it responds a little bit better and then I’ll have more information for you guys then.”
Even so, Stafford hasn’t started his acclimation process, so he’s not set to play against the Chargers. Los Angeles is keeping things cautious with its 16-year veteran, and his presence still means everything to McVay’s offense.
McVay broke down the situation when asked about Stafford’s injury and whether it’s a matter of function or pain management. “I think probably a little bit of both,” he replied.
“But 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.”
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, finishing 22nd in PFSN’s QB+ metric while guiding the Rams to a postseason win.
.@Chris_Broussard says the Rams are not a threat to get to the Super Bowl:
“I get it that Matthew Stafford’s everybody’s All-American… BUT let’s face facts, guys. He had a whole off-season to rest and relax and his back is aching.” pic.twitter.com/gUKYM2LD1Y
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) August 15, 2025
With Stafford sitting out preseason action on Saturday, McVay is expected to hand the offense to backup quarterback Stetson Bennett. Bennett had a strong showing against the Cowboys last week, completing 16 of 24 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. Now, fans are watching to see if he can ride that momentum into Week 2.
Stafford’s fantasy football outlook comes with a bit of warning, according to PFSN’s Jason Katz.
“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.”
Right now, the Rams’ patient strategy with Stafford highlights how valuable he still is heading into the 2025 campaign. Preseason games are great for reps, but ensuring your 16-year veteran stays healthy is more important than anything in August.
With Bennett running the show for now, the real drama is about when Stafford will be ready to lead Los Angeles once the regular season starts.
