Stafford's back issue dominates Rams camp as Garoppolo leads

Matthew Stafford’s back issue has dominated the Los Angeles Rams’ early camp storyline, with the veteran quarterback missing practice as he copes with an aggravated disc and undergoes ongoing treatment. He has not played in training camp, received an epidural, and remains without a clear timetable for a return. In the meantime, Jimmy Garoppolo has taken the majority of first-team reps, while the Rams assess how to navigate a season in which Stafford’s health could be pivotal to their Super Bowl ambitions.

Stafford’s absence stretches into a fourth straight day of practice, averaging a cautious pace as the team prepares for two preseason games and a Sept. 7 season opener against the Houston Texans. Coach Sean McVay reiterated that the Rams are approaching the situation with flexibility, noting that Stafford would attempt another throwing session on Saturday to gauge progress. “Hopefully his back responds a little bit better,” McVay said after a joint practice with the Saints, adding that the plan is to align treatment with a potential return to the field. “I don’t really have much more information other than I think we’re trying some different things that are hopefully going to...