Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford took a major step toward returning to full action on Saturday, throwing 68 passes during a morning workout at the team’s practice facility.
Stafford nears return as Rams eye Week 1 after back scare
Head coach Sean McVay said Stafford looked sharp, mixing in deep, intermediate, and short throws while moving comfortably in the pocket. The veteran quarterback has been sidelined throughout training camp with an aggravated disk in his back, but appeared unfazed during the session.
Stafford watched from the sideline during the Rams’ preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys later that night. McVay confirmed the plan is for Stafford to take part in individual drills when practice resumes Monday.
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While McVay wouldn’t comment on whether the 36-year-old is still feeling discomfort, he emphasized earlier in the week that Stafford would be ready to play if the regular season had already begun.
What's next for the Rams?
The Rams also canceled a scheduled joint practice with the Los Angeles Chargers this week, citing the Chargers’ injury situation. McVay had already planned to keep Stafford out of that session to avoid the risk of uncontrolled contact during competitive drills.
The Rams will take on the Chargers on Saturday in preseason game 2. The final preseason action for Los Angeles takes place on Aug. 23, as they are at the Cleveland Browns. The regular season opener comes Sept. 7 as they battle the Houston Texans.
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