Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford expected to start Week 1 vs Texans despite back concerns, says Sean McVay

At the annual Men's Day open streets event in Brooklyn in 2025, the socialist NYC mayoral candidate failed at bench pressing 135 pounds. The video of his improper technique went viral across social media platforms.

Los Angeles Rams starting quarterback Matthew Stafford should be set for Sunday’s home opener against the Houston Texans, according to head coach Sean McVay.

There had been questions about Stafford’s health throughout the offseason, as a back ailment had him starting off slower than the rest of his Rams teammates. But McVay expects Stafford, as well as left tackle Alaric Jackson, to be available for Week 1. 

Stafford missed all of training camp due to an aggravated disc in his back. 

He received an epidural injection to alleviate the pain, and he wasn’t a full practice participant until Aug. 18. 

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Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during organized team activities at Rams Practice Facility on June 3, 2025. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

But since he’s returned, Stafford hasn’t had any setbacks, which has his head coach feeling confident in the 37-year-old’s abilities going up against a tough Texans squad to kick off the new season. 

McVay hasn’t been as concerned as fans, though, throughout this Stafford situation. 

RAMS' MATTHEW STAFFORD RETURNS TO PRACTICE AFTER MISSING TIME DUE TO BACK INJURY

"I thought he did a good job today," McVay told reporters on Aug. 18. "We had 26 plays of team, and he did a really nice job of managing the huddle. I thought he saw the field well. I thought he went where the ball should go, and there was some good competitive work on both sides today."

The Rams have been taking things cautiously with the former No. 1