Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams are steadfast in their belief that Matthew Stafford will take the first snap in Week 1 versus the Houston Texans. LA’s signal caller is set to return to practice on Monday, though will sit out next week’s joint practices against the Los Angeles Chargers.
It makes sense to keep Stafford out of harm’s way in a less controllable environment that introduces another team. Still, the Rams do not play starters and key contributors in the preseason and instead use these joint sessions as their dress rehearsals. It’s both noteworthy and important that Stafford will miss competitive reps against the Dallas Cowboys and Chargers, though there is seemingly enough time for him to develop chemistry with his new pass catchers ahead of the regular season. All things considered, the veteran’s health is trending in the right direction ahead of Week 1.
“Ready to play” or “Ready to play well”?
It’s not only about being healthy enough to play. Stafford must also perform at a high level to start the season. The Rams have struggled out of the gate the last two years, and in a seemingly competitive NFC West division they may not have the luxury to stumble early in 2025.
How prepared can Stafford be without valuable reps against another team? Joint practices are helpful because they bring a diversity in schemes faced. For example, the Cowboys said it was beneficial to see the Rams’ 3-4 style of defense because up to that point they had only faced their 4-3 defensive front. If you want to be ready for the season, it helps to practice in a competitive environment and face off against people who aren’t your teammates.
It will be a very positive development if Stafford is truly healthy enough to take the field against the Texans, although the glory of the moment will fade if the offense is unable to put up points and stand up to a talented Houston roster.
Will Stafford be rusty? Is he more likely to put the ball in harm’s way following an abbreviated preseason schedule?
Then there is also the question of how long Stafford can maintain his health. Social media medical experts give Stafford a very high risk of re-injury to his back, which makes sense considering he is prone to be tackled by a 300+ lbs. defensive lineman on any given play. The Rams also have significant health questions on the offensive line—primarily Alaric Jackson’s recurring blood clot issue.
The bottom line is Los Angeles has Super Bowl expectations this season. They not only need Stafford healthy and on the field, but to perform at a high level. There are questions simply whether he can withstand a full 17-game schedule. The more important and bigger questions are whether he can play well enough to help this team get to where they want to go.
