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**Summary:**

The Los Angeles Rams are tight-lipped about Matthew Stafford’s current condition and his ability to play in the upcoming season. Despite a planned workout over the weekend, the Rams organization, including Coach Sean McVay, is refusing to comment on whether Stafford participated or even attended the preseason game. Stafford’s back issue has kept him sidelined from practice for weeks, raising concerns as the season opener approaches. While McVay initially expressed confidence, Stafford’s continued absence, coupled with Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett getting reps, casts doubt on Stafford’s availability and the team’s Super Bowl aspirations.

**News Article:**

**Rams Mum on Matthew Stafford’s Status as Season Opener Looms**

**LOS ANGELES** – Uncertainty surrounds the Los Angeles Rams as the September 7th season opener against the Houston Texans draws near, with the organization remaining stubbornly silent about quarterback Matthew Stafford’s condition. Stafford, who is battling a back issue, has yet to take a single snap during team practices, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming season.

Over the weekend, a scheduled workout for Stafford was supposed to take place, however, when questioned after Saturday’s preseason game against the Chargers, Coach Sean McVay refused to comment, and other members of the Rams staff, including Aubrey Pleasant, deferred to McVay. A team spokesman indicated McVay would address the situation on Monday, adding to the mounting speculation.

“Nobody knew or would say whether or not Stafford’s workout actually happened,” explained CBS Sports Writer, Pete Prisco, after Saturday’s game.

This tight-lipped approach has fueled concerns about the severity of Stafford’s back issue, which first surfaced in late July. While McVay initially downplayed the situation, assuring that Stafford would rejoin teammates in Week 2 of training camp, he has remained sidelined ever since.

With Stafford’s status in doubt, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Stetson Bennett have been getting first-team reps in practice and preseason games, respectively. Garoppolo, a Super Bowl veteran, and Bennett, fresh off leading Georgia to back-to-back national titles, offer viable alternatives.

The Rams, with a healthy Stafford, would be considered Super Bowl contenders. However, his current condition and the organization’s silence leave fans wondering if the veteran quarterback will be under center when the Rams host the Texans in just three weeks.

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