As the Los Angeles Rams open training camp, veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford is conspicuously absent from practice, with the team opting for a cautious approach to back soreness that’s lingered longer than expected. Initially believed to be on track to return after the first five-day block of camp, Stafford will now miss at least another full week of practices (July 28–August 1), head coach Sean McVay confirmed over the weekend.
“Matthew Stafford will not practice next week,” McVay said. “We are going to still take some more time with him, though. Nothing that’s changed in terms of a setback. I probably spoke a little bit too soon, but the ultimate goal is Houston and being mindful of that. So we’ll take it a week at a time with him.”
Los Angeles Rams Adjust Matthew Stafford Return Timeline
Get your Puka-Flex T-Shirt Here
McVay’s remarks signal a shift from the original plan, which was a modified training camp load to account for Stafford’s age and mileage entering Year 17. However, further conversations with Rams Senior VP of Sports Medicine and Performance Reggie Scott and renowned spine specialist Dr. Robert Watkins IV led the Rams to take a more conservative stance.
“We’re gonna be week to week with him,” McVay added. “When you really look at it, he feels really good about a plan. Reggie and Dr. Watkins will help determine the best plan of attack for the longevity of this season. Rushing him back where you could potentially have an unnecessary setback just doesn’t make sense.”
While backup quarterbacks Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett take first-team reps, Stafford continues to work through a rehab plan tailored with the help of Watkins, one of the nation’s foremost spine experts. Dr. Watkins, IV, is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Director of the Marina Spine Center, and a trusted specialist for several L.A. sports franchises including the Rams, Lakers, Dodgers, Clippers, and Kings. He also consults with over 15 NFL teams and is known for his work with professional athletes experiencing both cervical and lumbar spine issues.
Watkins has authored the two largest publications on spine surgery in pro athletes and frequently lectures on spinal injuries in sports. His deep experience in high-performance rehab and preventative care is central to the Rams’ strategy with Stafford, who has had back and neck issues in the past.
“It’s the smart thing to do,” McVay said. “I don’t have any reason to be concerned based on the information that’s been given. But I don’t think we can be smart enough with somebody like Matthew. I think it’s best for him and best for our football team.”
Stafford, now 37, is entering his fourth season with the Rams and recently agreed to a restructured deal that includes a $44 million payout in 2025. The Rams hope to have him ready to go for the season opener on September 7 against the Houston Texans. While the situation remains fluid, the team has made clear that protecting their Super Bowl-winning quarterback’s long-term health outweighs the short-term urgency of training camp.
“[Stafford] is still good,” McVay reiterated. “We were always going to be mindful with him, and this plan checks both boxes—for the player and the team.”
With input from Dr. Watkins and the Rams’ training staff, Stafford’s recovery will continue on a week-to-week basis, keeping September in sharp focus while the pads go on without him in Irvine.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Rams YouTube Channel