Matthew Stafford spent over ten years as the face of the Detroit Lions. While his time in Detroit didn’t produce many deep playoff runs, fans in the Motor City still view him with a great deal of respect. After being traded to the Los Angeles Rams, Stafford immediately delivered a Super Bowl victory in his first season. Meanwhile, Detroit has been building its own momentum and chasing a chance to reach the championship stage themselves.
This offseason hasn’t been smooth for the veteran quarterback. Stafford has been sidelined with a back issue and has yet to participate in Rams training camp. On Thursday, August 14, head coach Sean McVay provided an update that raised more questions than answers. While it’s certainly a concern for Los Angeles, it doesn’t carry the same weight for Lions supporters.
Stafford is currently working through an aggravated disc problem in his back, which has kept him from practicing. For Rams fans hoping for a strong season, his absence is troubling.
McVay’s Update on Stafford
Speaking with the media after practice, McVay admitted the situation remains uncertain. He expressed hope that Stafford’s condition improves but avoided making guarantees.
“Hopefully it responds a little bit better, and then I’ll have more information for you guys then,” McVay said.
When asked if the injury was more about pain management or physical limitations, he acknowledged it was “a little bit of both,” adding that the team is still experimenting with different treatments in hopes of getting Stafford back on the field.
At this point, the outlook is unclear. The Rams are planning for Stafford to practice on Saturday, August 16, which will serve as a key test to see if his body can handle more activity.
“The good news, if there is any, is that the Rams expect Stafford to work out again tomorrow,” McVay noted. “If his body responds better than it did the last time, we can keep moving toward him being ready for the season opener. But if things flare up again, that will be tough to overlook.”
Now entering his age-37 season, Stafford’s durability is a legitimate concern given all the hits he has taken over his career.
Stafford’s Contract Situation
Stafford is under a short-term deal with Los Angeles, having signed a two-year, $8.4 million contract this offseason. The agreement includes $8 million guaranteed, averaging $4.2 million per year. For him, the priority is simply staying healthy enough to make it through the season.
Detroit fans, of course, will always root for their former franchise quarterback—as long as he’s not facing the Lions.
