Quarterback Matthew Stafford is set to remain with the Los Angeles Rams after restructuring his contract. This decision ends weeks of uncertainty about his future with the team.
The Rams officially shared the news of the new agreement, but they haven’t disclosed the details yet. Stafford, now 37, had two years left on his original four-year, $160 million contract, which he signed in 2022 after leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in his first season.
His salary of $27 million for the upcoming season was lower than what other quarterbacks of his caliber typically earn. Additionally, he had just $4 million guaranteed for 2025 and none for 2026.
Last year, Stafford secured more guaranteed money just before training camp. Recently, he began renegotiating with the Rams again. The team was hesitant about making a large financial commitment, which could restrict their ability to strengthen their roster. However, they eventually reached an agreement that keeps Stafford as the quarterback through 2025. The Rams’ social media even stated that “Stafford is here to stay.”
In the previous season, Stafford threw for 3,762 yards with 20 touchdowns. The Rams finished with a 10-7 record, securing the NFC West title, but lost in the playoffs to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Several teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants, showed interest in trading for Stafford, even discussing potential contract terms. Recently, Stafford and Raiders minority owner Tom Brady crossed paths in Montana, drawing attention, but their meeting was said to be casual and unplanned.
During his time with the Rams, Stafford has led the team to three playoff appearances in four seasons after spending 12 years with the Detroit Lions, who traded him to Los Angeles for Jared Goff in 2021. Over these four seasons, he has amassed 14,700 passing yards, ranking sixth in Rams history, along with 95 touchdowns and 44 interceptions.
Stafford is just 191 yards shy of becoming the tenth quarterback in NFL history to reach 60,000 passing yards. The Rams’ offense will benefit from stability at the quarterback position during what could be a busy offseason. Receiver Cooper Kupp recently announced that the Rams are trying to trade him, which may end his eight-year journey with the team.
Even if Kupp leaves, Stafford likely still has the best chance to compete for another Super Bowl ring with the Rams compared to other options. Plus, he and his family can continue their life in Los Angeles without having to relocate.
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