The Los Angeles Rams’ woes have been further worsened after quarterback Matthew Stafford has been ruled out with a thumb injury. It has been a tough start to the season for the Rams having lost five out of their eight games. In this article, we will take a look at how long Stafford is going to be out and whether he will return in time for the Rams’ next game against the Green Bay Packers.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford injured his thumb during last weekend’s 20-43 loss against the Cowboys. In what was an already tough night for the Rams, Stafford’s injury has further put the side in hot waters. Stafford’s injury occurred in the second quarter during a clash with the Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micas Parsons.
Immediately after the clash, Stafford could be seen holding his hand and grimacing in pain. A couple of moments later, Stafford hit his injured thumb again on Mazi Smith’s shoulder pads. However, Stafford braved the pain and returned for the second half. However, he injured his thumb again while making a diving two-point conversion catch. The third blow to his hand was enough for the Rams star to exit the field and the game.
ICYMI — Coach talks about Matthew Stafford + key takeaways heading into Week 9.
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— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) October 31, 2023
Speaking after the match, Los Angeles coach Sean McVay couldn’t give much of an update about Stafford’s injury. He said, “We’ll see what the significance of that injury is, but I don’t want to speculate until I have full clarification from the doctors.” While it’s not sure whether Stafford will be back for the Packers game, the medical staff wouldn’t want to rush his return.
Who will replace Matthew Stafford for the upcoming Green Bay Packers clash?
Meanwhile, Los Angeles Rams’ backup quarterback Brett Rypien is expected to replace Matthew Stafford for the Packers game. Following Stafford’s injury against the Cowboys, it is unlikely that the 35-year-old star would be back in time against the Packers. It has been reported that Stafford remained absent from practice yesterday as he continues to recover.
Rypien, who was signed by the Rams this year, came on against the Cowboys after Stafford got injured. Rypien finished the game, completing five out of his ten attempted passes for 42 yards. However, it will be tough for Rypien to fill in Stafford’s role. So far in the 2023 season, Stafford has registered 166 out of 278 passes for 2070 yards and he also has eight touchdowns and seven interceptions (via Statmuse).