“There’s not a world where Jimmy G should start over Stetson if Stafford misses time,” Benkert said.

The lingering back injury appears far worse than originally anticipated, which could put the Rams' Super Bowl hopes in serious jeopardy.

With three weeks to go until the Rams' season opener against the Texans on Sunday, Sept. 7, it remains unclear if Stafford will be available to direct the offense Week 1.