Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford was preparing to lead his team towards another possible Super Bowl run, but that path is now in question as the veteran QB is now dealing with an aggravated disc in his back. Since that was reported, we also know that he received an epidural to assist him in managing the pain and complications associated with that injury.
Rams weapons
The 37-year-old Stafford is entering his fifth season with the Rams, who signed the quarterback to a revised two-year, $84 million deal in February. Last season, the two-time Pro Bowler totaled 3,762 passing yards, 20 passing touchdowns, eight interceptions, and a 93.7 passer rating, while completing 65.8% of his passes. Los Angeles enters the season as a top 10 favorite to win the Super Bowl, and that’s with the idea that Stafford is ready to play. After barely being unseated by the eventual Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles, the Rams looked to the draft to retool, reportedly even attempting to get WR Tetairoa McMillan to help their young stud WR Puka Nacua. Instead, they left the draft with pieces all over the team, including TE Terrance Ferguson, RB Jarquez Hunter, and EDGE Josaiah Stewart.
Fantasy outlook
Before slowing down last year, Stafford was around QB11, allowing for fantasy teams to truly be built early, knowing that this stud QB was going to be waiting for them. The pairing of Puka being WR4 meant that the stack was also one that could benefit you greatly, therefore increasing his fantasy value even more. Stafford also received more help this season in WR Davante Adams, one of the premier pass catchers of the last 5 years, even during his tenure in Green Bay with QB Aaron Rodgers. The two-headed monster at WR now allows Stafford to distribute the ball while attempting to stay healthy.
What’s an “aggravated disc?”
Stafford is reportedly taking it very light during Rams camp, and the team has even placed the “typically refers to a herniated disc or bulging disc that is causing increased pain or discomfort due to some form of strain or injury. This can involve a disc that was previously asymptomatic, or it could be an exacerbation of existing disc problems.” Aggravated discs also imply that the disc condition is continuing to worsen or increase in pain due to some sort of complication.
While the goal remains that Matt Stafford is ready to play week 1, I believe this situation might be one to monitor, as the disc cannot be healed in these few weeks, meaning he will be playing with this pain most likely all year. Assuming Puka and Davante can stay open and allow Stafford to play in a clean pocket, should you also be worried about Stafford even surviving the season? Yes, absolutely, given the depth chart. McVay told reporters that Stafford is “feeling good” and “making good progress,” while going on to say, “We’ve been able to increase some things behind the scenes, kind of.”
What if Stafford can’t play?
Stafford averaged 13.4 points per game in 2024, his third-lowest total in his career. His QBs are Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett, though both have had their own struggles. If there is an insane change-up at QB, I believe the most interesting one would be the McVay-Cousins connection, as the Stafford injury could be one that lingers or worsens.
Blitz Sports Media ranks Matthew Stafford:
- PPR QB22
- PPR Overall #134
- STD QB22
- STD Overall #143
Either way, if you’re looking for your redraft QB, Matt Stafford is one to watch, injury or not. Dynasty, that’s another avenue – trade him NOW
