When word leaked out about quarterback Matthew Stafford’s injured thumb, Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay was alarmed—in a good way.
Hopefully, McVay added, “it was just a good scare.”
After suffering an injury during Sunday’s 43-20 thrashing by the Dallas Cowboys, Stafford was diagnosed with a damaged ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb. Moreover, X-rays showed that there was no fracture.
The soreness started when Stafford’s thumb (on this throwing hand) made contact with a defender’s helmet. The injury worsened when Stafford later grabbed a ball for a two-point convert.
Some thought Stafford’s third-quarter absence may be permanent, as the Rams’ season has spiraled out of control after they have dropped three of their last four games. McVay put an end to those speculations, characterizing Stafford’s state as “day-to-day.”
Stafford, 35, is still very much in the woods, and the Rams have a reputation for making rash decisions about the comeback dates of their injured players. However, Stafford will probably miss this week’s matchup with the Green Bay Packers for the time being.
After their trip to Wisconsin, the Rams (3-5) head into their bye week. Perhaps, 15-year veteran Stafford will be fit to play on November 19 against the Seattle Seahawks.
In the interim, Stafford’s absence will be felt by the squad, and backup quarterback Brett Rypien will start at center.
With a salary cap hit of $20 million for this season, only defensive lineman Aaron Donald’s $26 million salary cap hit surpassing that of his teammates, there is little question about how important Stafford is to the Rams.