Rams’ Matthew Stafford remains absent from practice

Stafford is not in uniform for Monday's practice, as noted by ESPN’s Sarah Barshop. She adds the 37-year-old is instead in a mobile Ammortal chamber, which helps with “restoration and rejuvenation” regarding injuries and pain management. A lingering back issue has increasingly become a storyline for team and player this summer, and Monday's development will do nothing to quell further doubts about Stafford’s Week 1 availability.

The Rams have consistently remained confident the issue will not extend into September, and a Saturday throwing session took place without any setbacks. That appeared to set Stafford up for practice in individual drills Monday, with work off to the side potentially taking place during the following days as joint practices with the Chargers unfolded. Injuries to the Bolts led to those joint practices being canceled, something which could pave the way for an increased participation rate over the coming days in Stafford’s case.

At this point, however, it remains unclear when the Super Bowl winner will suit up. Stafford’s camp explored a trade this offseason before the latest restructure to his contract was worked out. The 2025 arrangement resulted in another short-term raise but also money being guaranteed for next season. As a result, a clean bill of health is crucial for the Rams’ outlook beyond the coming campaign.

Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett are set to continue taking reps in practice at the quarterback spot. Team and player will of course hope Stafford joins that group in the near future as evaluations of his back continue. After receiving treatment Monday, it will be interesting to see what his outlook becomes moving forward. McVay has said Stafford would be available to play if it were currently the regular season, but this issue is clearly a point of concern as the countdown to Week 1 continues.