Stafford Limited at Start of Training Camp, but Ready for Season
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will begin training camp with limitations due to back discomfort. However, coach Sean McVay assured that he is expected to be “absolutely” ready for the start of the season. McVay indicated that Stafford will be limited in the first “block” of five days of the camp and will then follow a modified program for the rest of it, like other veteran players. Stafford is expected not to participate in one of the four practices in each block.Faced with the question about concern over the time Stafford might miss due to back discomfort, McVay responded that the situation is approached with a long-term perspective, considering the player’s 17 years of experience in the league. During the 2022 training camp, Stafford already had a modified program due to elbow discomfort. McVay explained that this approach is the smartest, based on Stafford’s accumulated experience and the strategies that have worked for him in the past, so they are confident that he will be ready for the second block. In addition, McVay reported that Rams left tackle Alaric Jackson, who is dealing with blood clots in his lower leg, will not be on the “Physically Unable to Perform” list or the “Non-Football Injury” list at the start of camp. Jackson reported to camp at Loyola Marymount University on Tuesday. McVay indicated that Jackson will participate in individual drills during practices. McVay clarified that Jackson will not participate in physical activities for the time being and that the situation will be taken on a day-to-day basis. He feels optimistic about the established plan, which he hopes will allow him to compete with his teammates. Although there is a plan in place, McVay did not provide a timeframe for Jackson’s return. The Rams re-signed Jackson to a three-year, $57 million contract in February. Rams running back Kyren Williams, who is entering the final season of his rookie contract, showed up to camp and will participate in practices. Williams expressed confidence that a contract extension will be reached, but stated that even if negotiations extend into the season, it will not change his mindset. In 16 games last season, Williams ran for 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns on 316 carries. He also caught 34 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns. The Rams and Williams’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, will meet on Wednesday to continue working on a deal. Williams said that both sides have made progress since they began talks during the offseason workouts. When asked if he anticipates reaching an agreement with the Rams, Williams replied: “Yes. I want to play for the Rams.”It’s important to balance the workload of veteran players with not “unnecessarily exceeding limits from a sports performance perspective, where players feel worn out before they’ve played one of these 17 guaranteed games.”
Sean McVay
