Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has been a bystander during training camp practices as he deals with what was initially described as a sore back.
More specifically, Stafford is dealing with an aggravated disc, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday. Stafford has been receiving epidurals to aid in dealing with the injury.
The club has called Stafford week to week while being cautious with the starting QB, but the team has plans for him to be ready Week 1, Rapoport added.
Rams head coach Sean McVay has largely downplayed Stafford's injury since he first spoke about it on July 22, but as the season draws nearer, cause for concern has risen.
Stafford, 37, hasn't participated in team drills throughout training camp.
In Stafford's absence, Jimmy Garoppolo would be the starter.
Just how the former Detroit Lions standout and one-time Rams Super Bowl-winner progresses will continue to be something to monitor at practice. L.A. opens up preseason action Saturday against the visiting Dallas Cowboys, but McVay and Co. traditionally don't even play their second-stringers, much less their starters.
So, Stafford watch continues with a little more clarity on what's ailing the 16-year pro who's headed into his fifth season with the Rams.
Los Angeles opens up its regular season at home Sept. 7 against the Houston Texans.
