Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Matthew Stafford, Rams Get Injury News on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Jan 22, 2026 7:17 PM ET

Matthew Stafford and the No. 5 seed Los Angeles Rams were able to advance to the NFC Championship Game after a 20-17 win over Caleb Williams and the No. 2 seed Chicago Bears in the divisional round. Now, the Rams will look to get back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2021 as they hit the road to face Sam Darnold and the No. 1 seed Seattle Seahawks in the conference championship.

Stafford has continued his MVP-caliber season into the playoffs. Through two games, the former Detroit Lions quarterback has completed 44-of-84 passes for 562 yards, three touchdowns and one interception, including game-winning drives in the divisional round and the wild card game against the Carolina Panthers. But in the NFC championship, Stafford could be getting some reinforcements.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) looks on before an NFL game.Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images

Rob Havenstein was selected by the Rams with the No. 57 pick in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft after spending his college career with the Wisconsin Badgers. He earned the starting right tackle job as a rookie and has remained there since, with a few stints at guard. Havenstein also helped Los Angeles win Super Bowl LVI.

Havenstein was forced to miss a few games during the first half of the 2025 NFL season, dealing with a lingering ankle injury. But after the Week 11 win over the Seahawks, the right tackle was added to the injured reserve due to the ankle issue, along with knee bursitis, and hasn't been able to play since.

But on Thursday, the Rams were finally able to take Havenstein off the injured reserve, meaning Stafford could see his starting right tackle return for the NFC championship.

"LA Rams Roster Moves: • Designated for Return, Returned to Practice OL Rob Havenstein," the Rams wrote on X.

LA Rams Roster Moves:
• Designated for Return, Returned to Practice OL Rob Havenstein pic.twitter.com/5wzSdHPnA4
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 22, 2026