Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will not need surgery to address his lingering back issues, easing one of the biggest concerns surrounding the team’s offseason outlook.
The Rams were just moments away from making another Super Bowl appearance, their second in the past five seasons, before falling 31–27 to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. That narrow defeat sparked immediate speculation about the franchise’s future, particularly at the quarterback position.
Stafford, who turns 38 this weekend, has not formally announced his plans for next season. However, after delivering a season that put him squarely in MVP conversations during the 2025 campaign, there is widespread belief he intends to continue playing.
Uncertainty surrounded Stafford last offseason as well, largely due to a disc issue in his back. Despite missing most of training camp, he managed to play through the injury without aggravating it during the year. Even so, there was concern that surgery might be necessary once the season ended.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport has since clarified that surgery will not be required. Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed on Monday that Stafford will not undergo a surgical procedure this offseason.
The decision is a positive development for Los Angeles, especially given how the back injury disrupted Stafford’s preparation last year. Avoiding surgery should allow him to have a more normal offseason moving forward.
McVay also shared insight into Stafford’s future with the team, noting that he does not expect the veteran quarterback to retire and anticipates his return next season. The Rams are also hopeful to retain wide receiver Davante Adams, whom they view as an important part of their plans.
While Puka Nacua delivered a dominant breakout season, it was Adams who paced the league with 14 touchdown catches, underscoring his value to the offense.



