The Los Angeles Rams are prepping for Week 1 without Matthew Stafford on the field.
The veteran quarterback is sidelined due to back soreness, per head coach Sean McVay. In the meantime, it’s Jimmy Garoppolo running the first-team offense.
Garoppolo, now in his 12th season, was elevated to the starting role just before camp opened.
According to Gary Klein of The Los Angeles Times, Stafford is expected to rejoin workouts sometime next week. But until then, it’s Garoppolo’s show. And if Stafford’s back issue lingers, the Rams are relying on a backup with real starting experience.
Garoppolo Brings Experience If Needed
Garoppolo is 43-21 as an NFL starter. He’s played for the Patriots, 49ers and Raiders. In 2019, he led San Francisco to the Super Bowl. He’s made seven career postseason appearances.
McVay made it clear the value and what he brings. Asked by Kay Adams whether the Rams have the best backup quarterback in the league, McVay didn’t hesitate.
“Yeah, I do,” he said. “Jimmy is a starting quarterback. He’s going into Year 12, he’s played at a really high level, and he brings a lot to the table. We were fortunate he chose to come back — he had other opportunities.”
McVay also pointed to how Garoppolo has fit into the Rams QB room.
“What’s cool is the respect he has for Matthew, and the way Matthew leads that room. There’s no doubt in my mind Jimmy will get another chance to start in this league.”
Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur backed that up.
“The show goes on when we’re out here,” he said. “He knows this locker room. The guys don’t blink when he’s out there. He has command of that huddle.”
Garoppolo signed with the Rams in 2023 after an injury-filled year with the Las Vegas Raiders. He played in just one game — starting the regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks. He went 27-for-41 for 334 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
Earlier this offseason, the Rams reportedly explored options to move Stafford and his contract. When that didn’t happen, Garoppolo returned on a one-year deal worth just over $3 million, per OverTheCap.
Many expected Garoppolo’s time with the Rams to last one season. He was viewed as a bridge option if Stafford was traded. But the 33-year-old chose to stay — largely because of McVay and the team culture.
“Sean plays a big role,” Garoppolo said. “Honestly, it’s just the people here. Having been around 12 years, you see both sides of it — and the other side can get old real quick. You’ve got to be around good people.”
For now, he’s preparing as if he’ll be needed. The Rams open the regular season Sept. 7 against the Houston Texans.
Stafford Still Expected to Start Week 1
Stafford, entering Year 17, is the clear starter when healthy. But after dealing with thumb and rib injuries in 2023, any setback is something the team will monitor closely.
The Rams are built to contend. And while Stafford gives them their best shot, they’ve built depth behind him.
Garoppolo is that insurance. Whether he’s needed in Week 1 or not, he’s staying ready.
And the entire organization believes in him.
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