Rams' Stafford 'Hated Not Being Out There' Last Season

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford revealed how much he "missed" playing football after suffering a season-ending spinal contusion in Week 11.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford had a rough 2022.

In just nine games, and with a shorthanded offensive line for the majority of that time, Stafford was battered, bruised, and eventually knocked out for the year with a spinal contusion in Week 11.

Stafford had a long journey back, but now that he's back on the field, he revealed how much he missed the game.

"The biggest thing you learn anytime you're out is just what the game means to you and how much you care about it," Stafford said on ESPN 710 AM radio station. "It was a tough time and I hated not being out there."

Stafford expressed the joy that came over him when he started playing again this offseason but mentioned there are a lot more off-the-field obstacles that healthy players must endure.

"I know that when I'm on the grass and in between the lines I have a whole lot of fun," Stafford said. "There's a lot more to play in this position or sport than just the two hours you guys see every day and that stuff's tough and that stuff's hard."

The 35-year-old hopes his best days are still ahead of him, but explained that this season is much different than the last one.

"Each year gets a little bit harder, to be honest with you, but when you put the pads on and go out there and compete, I have as much fun as anybody," Stafford said. "Just missing that and realizing how much you miss it puts a lot of things in perspective and got me going for this year."

Despite being ready to go, Stafford struggled even when healthy last season, finishing with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions in nine games.

Nevertheless, according to Rams coach Sean McVay, it appears as if those struggles have done nothing but motivate Stafford.

"Last year there was such a unique combination and collaboration of things that prevented him from being able to play the way that he’s capable of," McVay said in March. So, I think there are a lot of guys on our team that will have a renewed sense of urgency. He’s certainly one of those guys and we’re a lot better football team with him going.”

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