Major Matthew Stafford injury development revealed as Rams QB’s Week 1 status comes into focus

The injury holding Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford out has been revealed. 

The 37-year-old is dealing with an aggravated disc in his back and has received an epidural to help with the issue, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. 

The Rams reportedly believe that Stafford will be ready to go when Week 1 of the 2025 season rolls around in a month, with Los Angeles hosting the Texans.

But how ready will he be is the real question.

Stafford has not yet practiced with his offense during training camp as he has been sidelined with his injury.

Even if Stafford is healthy enough to play at home against the Texans on Sept. 7, Stafford might not be totally in sync, especially in a new-look offense that lost Cooper Kupp and added Davante Adams.

Jimmy Garoppolo is Stafford’s backup.

The Rams could be reaching the end of their window to compete for another Super Bowl after Stafford led them to the Lombardi Trophy in 2022.

They came close to ousting the Eagles in snowy Philadelphia in the divisional round last season but fell short to the eventual Super Bowl champs.

There was some questions regarding whether Stafford would return to the Rams as he sought a new deal, and there was a brief flirtation with the Giants, but the two sides struck a deal that will pay him $44 million this season, and another $40 million if he’s on the roster next season.

Stafford had a solid year in 2024, throwing for 3,762 yards with 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Adams arrives after his reunion with Aaron Rodgers on the Jets failed, while Kupp left to sign with the Seahawks.