Matthew Stafford will not return to practice next week as previously expected due to ongoing back soreness, coach Sean McVay announced Saturday. The 37-year-old veteran has been limited during the first week of Los Angeles Rams training camp while working with the team\'s training staff.
McVay emphasized that Stafford has not experienced a setback but described the extended absence as \"the smart thing to do a week at a time with him.\" The Rams coach initially projected Stafford would have a limited start to camp but remain ready for the regular season opener.
The team plans to maintain a modified practice schedule for Stafford even after his return to the field. Several other veteran offensive players will also receive reduced workloads during training camp preparation.
McVay reiterated his confidence that Stafford will be ready for the Rams\' season opener against the Houston Texans. The coach stated he has no reason for concern about the quarterback\'s availability for Week 1.
\"I don\'t think we can be smart enough with somebody like Matthew and I think it\'s best for him, best for our football team, and that\'s kind of the plan that we\'ll have moving forward,\" McVay said.
Stafford has spent most of the first training camp week away from field activities while working with medical staff. He watched portions of Saturday\'s practice from the sidelines as teammates continued preparations.
Last season, Stafford completed 65.8% of his passes for 3,762 yards and 20 touchdowns across 16 games. He sat out the regular season finale after the Rams clinched the NFC West division title.