by: Chandler Vessels 38 minutes ago ChandlerVessels
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will start Week 1 against the Houston Texans, per coach Sean McVay. The veteran QB had been dealing with a back injury that limited him during training camp, and he did not appear in any preseason contests.
Stafford, 37, is getting ready to enter his 17th season in the league and his fifth with the Rams. He led LA to the Divisional Round of the playoffs this past season, where it lost against the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Specifically, it was an aggravated disc that sidelined Stafford for much of training camp. However, he returned to practice on Aug. 18 and was upgraded to a full participant on Aug. 21.
Last season, Stafford played in 16 games during the regular season and finished with 3,762 yards passing and 20 touchdowns to eight interceptions. He also played 15 games the year prior in 2023 and the Rams will be counting on his durability again this season.
Stafford will be without one of his familiar targets when the Rams kick off the season, as Cooper Kupp was released this offseason and signed with the Seattle Seahawks. However, LA also brought in veteran receiver Davante Adams and returns leading pass catcher Puka Nacua .
That in mind, there’s a lot to look forward to out of the passing game if Stafford can remain healthy throughout this season. Kickoff for the game against the Texans is set for 4:25 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.