Why Matthew Stafford's Elbow Ailment Won't Limit Defending Champs

Two days before the Rams and Bills kickoff the season and quarterback Matthew Stafford's right elbow is still the focus of the defending Super Bowl champions. 

The Pro Football Docs continue to contend that Stafford's lingering elbow soreness is likely a symptom of tendonitis and won't limit his performance this season. 

The 34-year-old gunslinger has a strong SIC score of 93 this season and the Docs expect the durable Stafford to once again play well through his injury. 

Matthew Stafford Injury Update

Importantly, Stafford isn't included in the Rams' injury report for Thursday's contest against the Bills, who are favored by 2.5 points in Los Angeles.

Stafford reportedly underwent a procedure in the offseason that involved a platelet-rich plasma injection.

The procedure addressed medial epicondylitis involving flexor tendon insertion at the elbow, which can affect grip. Still, the Pro Football Docs are confident he can make all throws necessary during the game, even if he attempts 60 passes each week. 

The tendinitis issue is more about managing his practice reps, which the Rams did during training camp.

Sean McVay has parroted in recent weeks that while Stafford elbow issue will likely be a season-long issue, it won't limit his in-game performance and he could throw the ball 55-60 times if that was the gameplan.

Stafford's recovery plan will likely be pain and use management focused, including fewer practice reps to limit the stress on the muscles.

There has been warranted concern that Stafford suffered an injury to his UCL, but there is no evidence to point to ligament damage, according to the Docs.

The 2008 No. 1 pick would be much more hamstrung as a passer with a UCL sprain, and Stafford has been able to participate during training camp. 

While his issue has become a sticking point in recent months Stafford was reportedly dealing with elbow soreness as far back as last November, one of a handful of ailments that Stafford played through during the Rams' playoff run.