The Rams have put together a roster that many consider to be among the best in the NFL. With the recent signing of standout players like Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie, expectations for the Super Bowl are climbing high.
But with all this enthusiasm, there’s an underlying concern that almost derailed the team last season. It’s about Matthew Stafford’s health, and this year, there isn’t a solid backup plan ready to step in.
In a recent note from training camp, Rams reporter Nate Atkins mentioned that Stafford missed two of the three offseason open practices due to what he referred to as a “regressive back issue.”
Normally, this might not raise too many alarms, but given last year’s troubles, it’s certainly worth paying attention to.
During Stafford’s absence, Stetson Bennett was the primary backup, with rookie Ty Simpson also getting some work in. However, neither one stood out during the limited practice opportunities. Bennett struggled with a careless interception thrown in a practice, while Simpson missed several key long throws.
According to Atkins, the situation isn’t as straightforward as it was in the past when Jimmy Garoppolo was the backup, given his experience starting in so many NFL games.
This concern looms large because the Rams faced a potential crisis with Stafford’s health before the 2025 season began. Coach Sean McVay divulged that there were serious considerations about placing Stafford on injured reserve during training camp, as his lower back issues weren’t improving with treatment.
“What people don’t realize is how close they came,” McVay remarked in a podcast. He highlighted that at one point, it was evident they needed to consider putting him on temporary IR to manage expectations better.
Fortunately, Stafford found a way to recover and returned to practice, eventually earning NFL MVP honors and leading the Rams to the NFC Championship Game.
Yet, the apprehension surrounding his health never fully subsided. Recently, ESPN’s Dan Graziano pointed out that back injuries typically worsen with age. At 38 and in his 18th NFL season, although Stafford played through the last season without missing a game, the organization remains vigilant about his ongoing symptoms.
The Rams could have mitigated this risk if they still had Garoppolo available. But now, they’re left to rely on either Bennett or Simpson, neither of whom has shown they can handle crucial NFL games effectively.
Ultimately, how Stafford’s health shapes the narrative will be pivotal for the Rams’ 2026 season.
With a championship-level roster constructed around a seasoned quarterback, missing Stafford for an extended period could leave Los Angeles in a tight spot, relying on one of those less experienced players. The competition for the backup spot during the offseason hasn’t clarified who will step up if necessary.
While the additions of Garrett, McDuffie, and the talent on the Rams’ roster create buzz this offseason, the path to the Super Bowl might still hinge on the same crucial factor as last year: keeping Stafford healthy.
