4 major observations from Matthew Stafford’s Rams training camp (so far)

There is always so much to talk about when the LA Rams begin training camp, it’s almost like being 12 years old once more, and stepping up to the Baskin Robbin’s counter for the first time. There is just so much to mention, so many great narratives and storylines to pursue, each with their own passions, opinions, and potential impacts on the Rams 2022 season, that it’s hard to decide which to touch on quickly.

And so, the risk of being too paralyzed to cover much is very real.

To avoid the paralysis of too many options, let’s dial it back a bit, and shine the momentary spotlight on starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. After all, I don’t think it’s any hyperbole or exaggeration to say that the LA Rams season will only go as far as Stafford’s throwing arm can take them.

Stafford, like many seasoned NFL veterans who join the LA Rams team, is enjoying a bit of a renaissance in his career. His numbers in just his first season with the club flirted with some of the best single-season performances of his career.  But the Rams did not acquire a young man. Stafford has seen his share of brutal hits, painful injuries, and batterings in previous seasons. So the Rams must take special care to ensure that he remains in optimal playing shape through what could become another 21-game Super Bowl campaign.

Observation IV: The arm looks great

The first stop on the Matthew Stafford review has to be on his throwing arm. After all, we know that he had a procedure performed this off-season, an anti-inflammatory injection, and an elbow brace to limit his motion. So how does he look now?

Well, that’s great news. After all, it’s a 17-game regular season, plus four playoff games to compete in Super Bowl LVII.  After factoring in the throwing during practice, OTAs, and training camp, that is a lot of wear and tear to a seasoned quarterback.

So, that raises another question. How will the LA Rams handle Matthew Staffords throwing arm off-season issue going forward? Is this a sign of aging? Or was it an injury triggered by a hit, tackle, or contact after a throwing motion?