What We Learned at Rams Training Camp: The NFL’s MVP Looks Better Than Ever - Sports Illustrated

What the report says

Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano reported from Los Angeles Rams training camp on Monday that quarterback Matthew Stafford appeared sharp at the start of his age-38 season, showing no obvious limitations after health questions surrounded him in previous summers. Manzano wrote that Stafford, entering his 18th NFL season and coming off an MVP campaign, repeatedly connected with Puka Nacua during practice, including on tight-window and sideline throws.

The report said the Rams still face a potentially important decision behind Stafford. Los Angeles used the No. 13 pick in April on quarterback Ty Simpson, viewed in the article as a possible long-term successor, but Simpson worked behind both Stafford and Stetson Bennett during the observed practice and had limited opportunities. Manzano noted that Bennett, now in his fourth year, has not played in a regular-season game, raising questions about whether the team would trust him if Stafford were unavailable.

Sports Illustrated also highlighted several offseason additions and defensive storylines. Cornerback Trent McDuffie, described as one of the Rams’ major acquisitions, made a notable play in coverage against Nacua after Stafford tested him downfield. Edge rusher Myles Garrett, identified in the report as the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, had a light workload in his second Rams camp practice but lined up on both sides of the formation.

The broader takeaway from the camp visit was that the Rams’ offense could remain highly productive if Stafford continues at last season’s level, while the backup quarterback competition may become a central preseason issue. The observations are from one training camp practice, so roster decisions and player roles remain unsettled.