Warning signs around Matthew Stafford's injury are getting harder to ignore

The plight of Los Angeles Rams fans seems to be a no-win situation where starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is concerned. Fans who are concerned can be labeled as worrywarts, finding monsters under the bed. After all, the team has officially declared its care plan for sitting Stafford as precautionary.

But on the other hand, there is the pattern of injuries that impact Stafford that seems to be increasing in frequency. And it's that pattern that seems to drive The Ringer's Diante Lee to speculate that the Rams' developing story over the veteran is something for fans to panic about. In his latest article, Lee cites a number of training camp articles that are developing across the league. And in a rather entertaining fashion, he assesses a panic meter to each tale from one to five, with one as the least to be concerned about.

When it comes to the Stafford story, Lee assesses it: "Panic level: 3 and rising, as to honor De La Soul."

Matthew Stafford has been frequently struggling with injuries

LA has enjoyed Stafford since 2021. But the tough-minded 37-year-old has a reputation for taking a lick and getting back up and leading the offense once more. It's the type of leadership that fascinates teammates, draws respect out of opponents, but turns coaches' hair white.

And the tough guy reputation has continued with the Rams. And as details of Stafford's back soreness have become more detailed, there seems to be a level of concern with the Rams that exceeds the official story. The team has consulted with Dr. Roibert G. Watkens IV, a renowned orthopedic surgeon who specializes in consulting with numerous Los Angeles sports teams.

But it may be warranted. After all, just look over the list of recent ailments that have afflicted him over the past four seasons:

• A bruised spinal column in 2022
• An injured thumb on his throwing hand in 2023
• Rib injuries in 2024
• Back pain in 2025*

With injuries increasing in frequency, the team is wise to ensure the best medical care for its star quarterback. At his age, he needs to get his care plan correct at its inception to ensure a rapid and full recovery.

Still, if the Rams are officially optimistic about Stafford's recovery, why is Lee so nervous about it? Is he simply trying to make a mountain of a molehill? Or does he have reasons for his nervousness?

This is what The Ringer's author had to say to justify his anxiety:

"Stafford took quite a beating for his first decade-plus in the NFL, hanging in the pocket and taking big hits in order to push the ball downfield. Even though the Rams haven’t given a detailed diagnosis of what Stafford’s dealing with, we know that he broke bones in his back earlier in his career, and he missed time in 2022 due to a contusion in his spinal cord. Even without this injury history, it’s fair to assume that the general wear and tear of a 16-year career makes it tough to shake off any back soreness."

He then goes on to share his doubts. His final paragraph clinches his concern:

"I would not be surprised if we see Los Angeles take things as slow as possible with Stafford in camp. It will be interesting to see whether McVay tweaks the offense when Stafford returns to better protect the quarterback. Like seemingly everyone else, I believe Los Angeles can beat anyone when Stafford is in a groove; I’m just not sold on his body’s ability to get him there."

And there it is. His concern is that Stafford's age has finally caught up to him. After a career of 16 punishing NFL seasons, the cumulative effect of getting pounded into the dirt and forcing himself to rise and continue competing has finally taken its toll.

Who is correct? By rights, we have to give the Rams staff the benefit of the doubt. But we know in hindsight that Stafford suffered a rib injury last season that impacted his performance significantly, and no mention was made. So whether you choose to be concerned or not, you are justified in doing so.

Let's hope for the best. But from what we've learned about both Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett, the Rams are prepared for the worst.

As always, thanks for reading.

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