Coach Sean McVay told reporters Monday that quarterback Matthew Stafford is “good to go” despite spraining his index finger in the Los Angeles Rams’ 34-31 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Stafford, who threw 304 yards and three touchdowns in the win, appeared to suffer the knock with the score drawn level at 17-17 in the third quarter as his throwing motion clashed with the helmet of a leaping linebacker, D.J. Wonnum, who attempted to block the pass. After the player, he grinned as he grabbed his fingers.
“He’s as tough as it gets, but he’s feeling good,” McVay said of Stafford. “He had a little sprain on the index finger. I don’t want to say little, but he had a sprain on the index finger, but he was able to push through it. He’s as tough as it gets, and we’ll be good to go.”
Robin Alam – The Sporting Tribune
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford throws the football during an NFL Wild Card game against the Carolina Panthers, on Saturday, January 10, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Sunday that Stafford would “undergo tests,” but McVay didn’t reveal specifics of any testing.
McVay added that he does not expect Stafford to wear any additional protection on his hands because of the injury. Though on the road at the Chicago Bears’ Soldier Field, the 37-year-old could opt for more protection to deal with below-freezing projected temperatures should he want.
“It seems like it’s going to be pretty damn cold,” McVay said. “Get your gloves on!”
Despite the frigid temperatures, Stafford should be used to the cold-weather environment, as he spent 12 seasons with the Detroit Lions and frequently traveled to play the division-rival Bears.
Stafford’s play could be vital in securing a victory against a Bears squad that just pulled off a remarkable 31-27 win over the Green Bay Packers after trailing 21-6 in the fourth quarter.
“He’s going to be good to go, and that’s the most important thing,” McVay said. “Anything other than that…that was what I wanted to hear.”