Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams wrapped up the 2025 NFL regular season with a commanding 37-20 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, finishing with a strong 12-5 record and securing the No. 5 seed for the playoffs. The Rams are now preparing for the Wild Card round, where they will face off against the Carolina Panthers, who hold the No. 4 seed, in Charlotte.
At 37 years old, Stafford has delivered one of the most impressive seasons of his 17-year career. The former Georgia Bulldogs quarterback completed 388 of 597 passes for a remarkable 4,707 yards, leading the league with 46 touchdown passes and only eight interceptions. With such performance, he is currently favored to win his first NFL MVP award, with New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye closely behind him.
As the Rams strive for their second Super Bowl title in five years, they will have to navigate the playoffs without a key offensive lineman. Kevin Dotson, who was acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers prior to the 2023 season, suffered an ankle sprain during Week 16, preventing him from playing in the final two regular-season contests. He was established as a crucial component on the offensive line after signing a three-year, $48 million contract extension following the previous season.
Despite making progress in his recovery, Dotson has officially been ruled out for a third consecutive game ahead of the Wild Card matchup against the Panthers, leaving Stafford without one of his main protectors. In addition to Dotson, the Rams will also be without wide receiver Jordan Whittington due to a knee issue. Tight end Terrance Ferguson (hamstring) and cornerback Josh Wallace (ankle) are listed as questionable for the game. On a positive note, star wide receiver Davante Adams, who has missed action with a hamstring injury since Week 16, is no longer on the injury report and is expected to return to the field on Saturday.
Sean McVay, the Rams’ head coach, confirmed Dotson’s status, stating, “Kevin Dotson will be out for Saturday’s Wild Card game against the Panthers, though he is making good progress,” as shared by Rams senior staff writer Stu Jackson.
The Rams and Panthers will clash this Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET, broadcast live on FOX, with both teams looking to advance further in the playoffs. As fans eagerly await this pivotal matchup, the Rams remain optimistic and focused on their goal of returning to the Super Bowl.