Lack of Matthew Stafford Succession Plan Could Cost Rams Super Bowl Shot

CARSON, Calif. — Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay appropriately wore shades while addressing reporters after his team’s joint practice with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday at Dignity Health Sports Park. 

Obfuscation regarding injuries is paramount during these dog days of training camp. And top of mind for McVay was the health of star quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has not practiced since the start of camp due to an aggravated disc in his back. McVay said that Stafford will try to throw on Saturday before the Rams host the crosstown rival Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium in their second preseason game. 

"Hopefully it responds a little bit better and I’ll have more information for you guys then," McVay said regarding Stafford.

In the past two years, McVay and GM Les Snead have retooled the team with a ferocious defensive front led by Jared Verse, Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske. Now as they're expected to contend for the Super Bowl after taking the Philadelphia Eagles to the brink of elimination in the divisional round last season, the Rams have pinned their title hopes on a 37-year-old quarterback with a balky back. 

If Stafford can’t stay healthy, it’s hard to see this team making any noise in the postseason — or even reaching the playoffs. And the team's failure to create a succession plan for Stafford could curtail its Super Bowl hopes for years to come.

Stafford was expected to return to practice after a throwing session at the team’s Woodland Hills headquarters last weekend. McVay said Stafford made 68 throws during that session and looked good. But the veteran QB did not participate in practice all week. 

When asked if Stafford might need surgery to fix the disc issue, McVay said that has not been