Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has yet to participate in training camp as he deals with a back injury, and head coach Sean McVay does not want to place any timeline on the veteran’s return.
McVay suggested last week that Stafford would miss the first five days of practice due to back soreness that the 37-year-old experienced over the summer. When Stafford still was not ready after the first week, McVay said the team is taking things “a week at a time” with their quarterback.
McVay was asked on Saturday for another update. He said Stafford is still “week-to-week” and that the quarterback will not participate in joint practices with the Dallas Cowboys, which begin on Tuesday.
The Rams also have joint practices with the Los Angeles Chargers beginning on Aug. 13, but McVay would not commit to Stafford returning by then.
“I wish I could help you out more with that. …The Cowboys, I would say that’s less than likely. With the Chargers, and I know I’m probably irritating you guys, but it truly is a week-to-week thing and what I don’t want to do is set a timeline,” McVay said, via Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. “I know he’s making good progress, saw Dr. Watkins again today. Everything is in good shape. But to answer your question, the Cowboys is a no and then we’ll see about the Chargers.”
Stafford has dealt with a number of injuries throughout his career, but he is known for playing through them. While he also had a back issue last season, he still managed to play in 16 games.
Stafford threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season. He led the Rams to the playoffs, where they beat the Minnesota Vikings in the wild-card round. L.A. lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.
The Rams have a capable backup in Jimmy Garoppolo, but the latest ailment for Stafford may highlight a potential need for McVay’s team.
Stafford has been around long enough that he could easily play in Week 1 after sitting out training camp and the preseason. The Rams likely hope to have him back before then, but they are not going to push anything with their two-time Pro Bowl QB.
