Rams have a strong Plan B for Matthew Stafford amid back issue

The Los Angeles Rams are confident with their backup plan for Matthew Stafford when they host the Houston Texans in their season opener on Sunday. 

Stafford has been dealing with an aggravated disc in his back this summer that kept him from playing in the preseason.

Per Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Rams head coach Sean McVay plans to start Stafford against the Texans but feels confident about putting in Jimmy Garoppolo if the Texans start hitting Stafford.

"But what if Houston’s ferocious front gets to Stafford? Remember when we talked about love? Well, the Rams have a lot of it for their backup, Jimmy Garoppolo," Russini wrote. "Rams coach Sean McVay views Garoppolo as a starting-caliber quarterback — he’s a natural passer with a quick release, and the Rams love the stability and skill set he brings to the table. The Rams want Stafford out there, but nobody will be panicking if Jimmy G. has to step in."

The Los Angeles Rams believe in Jimmy Garoppolo

Garoppolo beat out third-year quarterback Stetson Bennett IV for the QB2 spot in training camp. The 11-year NFL veteran started in one game for the Rams in 2024, going 27-of-41 passing for 334 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in a 30-25 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18.

Garoppolo has a 43-21 record as a starter. He led the San Francisco 49ers to an appearance in Super Bowl LIV.

The Rams were smart to keep a starting-caliber quarterback in Garoppolo, signing him to a one-year deal in March. Based on Russini's report, Los Angeles is planning for the 33-year-old to take significant snaps at some point in the season.