Considering Stafford’s ticking clock, the Rams pursuing Arch Manning as a future replacement makes a lot of sense.

Stafford’s Absence Sparks Real Questions About Rams’ Future at QB

The Los Angeles Rams entered Day 2 of training camp at Loyola Marymount University under clear skies and with a fast-paced practice underway — but with a noticeable absence. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford was not only off the field but entirely missing from the facility on Wednesday, raising new concerns about his health status.

Unlike Tuesday, when Stafford was at least present and working with the training staff on the side, he was completely out of sight. His absence came with no public explanation beyond what head coach Sean McVay offered — that Stafford was continuing his rehab under supervision.

McVay Downplays Absence but Acknowledges Monitoring Plan

McVay later clarified comments he made the previous day, emphasizing that Stafford’s sidelining was part of a broader preseason workload management strategy. According to McVay, there was already a plan in place to ease Stafford back into full action, especially considering the early portion of camp lacked full-contact practices.

“It’s the smart approach,” McVay said in an interview with Yahoo Sports. “There’s no reason to push him during these early days when we’re not even in pads.”

Yet, despite McVay’s reassurances, Stafford’s sudden back soreness — reportedly flaring up during a recent family vacation — introduces new complications for a 37-year-old quarterback with a lengthy injury history, including previous back and elbow issues.

A Super Bowl-Or-Bust Window Nearing Its Close

Inside the organization, there’s a growing sense that Stafford is playing through the twilight of his NFL career. Team sources suggest that if the Rams manage to win another Super Bowl this season, Stafford could use it as his cue to retire — similar to how John Elway exited the league in 1999.

Adding to this belief is the Rams’ recent acquisition of a second first-round pick for the 2026 NFL Draft, which even Stafford has joked about internally as a sign of the team’s preparation for life after him.

Planning for the Future: The Arch Manning Watch

Though the Rams remain committed to Stafford in the short term, there’s a very real and growing internal discussion about who will succeed him. And at the top of that conversation is Texas quarterback Arch Manning.

While Manning is not eligible until the 2026 NFL Draft — assuming he forgoes his senior year — he has already emerged as the Rams’ top quarterback target. Several team insiders describe him as the only quarterback currently graded in the franchise’s Tier 1 category for that draft class.

Why the Rams Covet Arch Manning

There are multiple reasons for the Rams’ early interest in Manning. He boasts ideal NFL size at 6-foot-4 and 219 pounds, has a high football IQ, and displays arm talent and athleticism reminiscent of a young Josh Allen — but with better speed and strength, according to Rams evaluations.

There’s also a personal connection: Les Snead’s stepson is a close friend of Manning, and Snead himself was seen speaking with the quarterback at Texas’ pro day this year. That relationship, while not decisive, adds fuel to the speculation.

Draft Strategy: Manning Even If Stafford Stays

Interestingly, the Rams’ interest in Manning appears strong enough that even if Stafford decides to return for the 2026 season, the team would still consider drafting Manning. The plan, in that case, would be to let Manning sit for a year and develop — a strategy reminiscent of how the Chiefs handled Patrick Mahomes behind Alex Smith.

Team sources say Stafford would likely support such a move, understanding that 2026 is shaping up to be his final NFL season regardless of outcomes on the field.

Succession Conversations Becoming Harder to Avoid

While the Rams remain focused on competing for another Super Bowl, the reality of Stafford’s age and recurring health issues is forcing the front office to prepare. There’s a heightened sense of urgency this time around — and significantly more momentum behind the scenes to establish a succession plan.

As one Rams insider put it, “This is no longer a hypothetical. It’s real planning now.”