Matthew Stafford’s Tests Show Mild Finger Sprain

Stafford to Play Despite Finger Injury, Rams Face Bears in Divisional Round

Quarterback Matthew Stafford is set to take the field for the Los Angeles Rams this weekend following a mild sprain to the index finger on his throwing hand. Medical evaluations confirmed the injury following Stafford’s performance in the Rams’ wild-card victory against the Panthers.

Stafford suffered the sprain during the first half of the game on Saturday, when he collided with a Carolina defender while releasing a pass. Despite the injury, he led the Rams to a thrilling 34-31 comeback, marking his sixth career playoff victory.

Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed confidence in Stafford’s readiness for the upcoming divisional round matchup against the Chicago Bears. “He’s as tough as it gets, but he’s feeling good,” McVay noted. “He was able to push through it, and he’ll be good to go.”

However, not all injury news was positive for the Rams. Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon will miss the remainder of the season after re-injuring his shoulder blade. The nine-year veteran is set to be placed on injured reserve, bringing an end to a season that has seen him limited to just seven games.

Witherspoon initially sustained a shoulder injury in Week 2 against Tennessee, which was initially misreported as a broken collarbone. After missing 2.5 months, he returned for the final four regular-season games but played only a handful of snaps in the wild-card match before sustaining the latest injury. This season, he recorded one interception and eight tackles.

In a more optimistic update, McVay indicated that right guard Kevin Dotson has a “good chance” to return this weekend after suffering a sprained ankle last month. Dotson plays a crucial role in the Rams’ rushing attack and was injured when Seattle linebacker Derick Hall stepped on his ankle, an action that earned Hall a one-game suspension.

Following Witherspoon’s initial injury, Cobie Durant stepped into the starting role at cornerback and performed effectively, including making an early interception against Carolina. As the Rams prepare for their next matchup, they will rely on both veteran leadership and emerging talent to navigate postseason challenges ahead.