Stafford All Smiles, Feels 'Really Good' Ahead of Week 1

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is enjoying practice, even if it is more difficult as he enters his age-35 season.

Veteran quarterbacks on big contracts have been a mixed bag in recent memory. Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford won a Super Bowl in his opening act out west but fell victim to elbow and back ailments in a disappointing 2022 season.

A year older and with an unproven roster around him, questions remain about Stafford’s performance as he marches through his mid-30s. For now, he isn’t worried.

“I feel really good,” Stafford started. “Still more difficult now than it was 10 years ago to get ready to go, but when I’m out there I’m feeling great.”

He acknowledged the obstacles that come with old age in professional sports, too. Stafford struggled last year, posting his lowest passer rating (87.4) and quarterback rating (44.7) since 2014. Rebounding will be vital to Los Angeles’ success in 2023.

“Guys have done a great job of trying to help me be in as good of a spot as I can with how we’re working out, treatment, all that stuff,” he said. “Just trying to make sure I’m as good a player as I can be.”

Reports out of camp have widely confirmed that Stafford looks and feels great. He seems to be enjoying himself, too.

“[Rams safety] Russ Yeast wears a visor and he was chasing me and I couldn’t see his eyes,” he said. “All I could see was him smiling and laughing at me … I was also laughing at that point, so it was fun.”

An energized Stafford has one of his most daunting challenges yet: finding success with a flurry of new faces amidst a Los Angeles youth movement. The Rams will showcase their young talent and their old quarterback in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks.

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You can follow Anthony Licciardi on Twitter @ALiccScouting

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