Former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is making progress in his recovery as he approaches what may be the last season of his career.

Stafford has been sidelined for the entirety of Los Angeles Rams training camp due to a complex back injury. The veteran was listed as week-to-week, but head coach Sean McVay offered optimism that he could be ready for the season opener.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Sunday that Stafford returned to the field for the first time in months. “Rams HC Sean McVay told reporters that Matthew Stafford — who hasn’t practiced this summer due to a back injury — threw 68 passes Saturday, and there were no limits to the types of throws he made,” Schefter said.

McVay expressed hope that Stafford could practice for the first time this summer. “Looking forward to progressing him back into practice on Monday,” McVay added.

Earlier this month, McVay had been less specific, stating the 37-year-old would be out for several weeks. “Week-to-week,” McVay said, via Pro Football Talk. “I wish I could help you out more with that.”

Asked if Stafford would join the team’s joint practices, McVay dismissed the Cowboys matchup but kept the Chargers game open, noting the quarterback’s visit to a back specialist. “The Cowboys, no,” McVay stated. “With the Chargers … it truly is a week-to-week thing. I know he’s making good progress, saw Dr. Watkins again today. Everything is in good shape.”

There remains ample time for Stafford to return before the Rams face the Houston Texans on September 7 to open the season.

The Rams acquired Stafford in a 2021 blockbuster trade, which paid off immediately with a Super Bowl win. The Lions also benefited, as Jared Goff overcame past struggles to become a Top 10 NFL quarterback.

Though Stafford inked a two-year extension this offseason, the Rams are evaluating on a yearly basis, and retirement remains a possibility.

“So, Stafford is technically under contract through 2026, but retirement has loomed over him in recent years,” Sullivan wrote. “The 2025 season will be his age-37 campaign, so it wouldn’t be shocking if he walks away afterward.”

While Stafford’s future is uncertain, the Lions are banking on Goff to lead them to the Super Bowl.