Stafford will start at quarterback for the Rams, with Alaric Jackson entrenched at left tackle in the opener against the Texans at SoFi Stadium. Jackson’s return comes after blood-clot issues, while Stafford, 37, aims to shake off a back ailment that sidelined him in portions of camp.

Los Angeles added D.J. Humphries to bolster the line, and depth options like Warren McClendon Jr. and David Quessenberry could swing opposite Rob Havenstein if needed. McVay remains optimistic Jackson will play, framing Sunday as a true test for the Rams’ blocking unit.

In short, the battle lines are set: protect Stafford, unleash the aerial attack, and monitor Jackson’s condition as LAR searches for stability up front in a pivotal Week 1.