Matthew Stafford, the battle-tested signal caller of the Los Angeles Rams, is no stranger to the big game. He’ll make his debut under center when his new club opens their season against the Houston Texans. Stafford knew he would miss practice time due to an aggravated disk in his back. Now, the Eagles coaching staff and medical team are going to be keeping a very close eye on his participation.
Stafford, who turned 37 this past February, was preparing for his 17th NFL season. He said the injury crept up on him while he was doing offseason workouts. While the injury was pretty uncomfortable, he was tough and mentally strong enough to put himself in position to go this week for the big game. He chose not to get into details about his back injury, reiterating a daily mentality for how he treats his body.
“It’s not cut and dry what’s what and how you’re going to feel, so I really appreciate our team and our head coach and everybody taking a day-to-day approach with me doing everything they can to try and help me out,” Stafford stated, reflecting his gratitude for the support from his team.
Head Coach Sean McVay expressed confidence in Stafford’s abilities, asserting, “I do believe that we’ll be at our best with him out there.” Stafford’s experience and leadership on the field will prove invaluable. They are readying themselves to go and smack the Texans in the mouth with their 7-1 swagtastic confidence.
In sharp contrast, Rams WR Van Jefferson might be having an even worse go of it as Rams QB Lamar Jackson. After battling blood clots in 2022, Jackson missed the last nine games of the season and joined the Ravens on the inactive list. All this year, he’s only participated in 1-on-1 drills and jog-throughs in training camp. Yet the Rams can’t afford those kinds of mishaps with Stafford, as they’re banking on his knowledge and talent to help them get back on top.
Even after recent warning signs on Stafford’s back, analysts haven’t wavered on their expectations for the Rams. As Dan Orlovsky pointed out, Stafford’s injury must not change how you feel about the Lions moving forward into next season. The Rams’ organization has been counting the days till their quarterback’s return. On the other hand the Texans are hell bent on making their own mark this season.
As the Rams continue to get ready for what should be a do-or-die contest, all attention will be focused on Stafford’s availability and effectiveness. He arrives with a combination of grit and gumption. His main focus, of course, is to make sure he leads his team well as they pursue that elusive success.
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