The Los Angeles Rams went all-in to win Super Bowl LVI, beginning with their blockbuster trade for Matthew Stafford at the start of the 2021 NFL calendar year. The franchise gave up a haul to upgrade the quarterback position, sending three draft picks, including two first-rounders, and former No. 1 overall selection Jared Goff to the Detroit Lions.
Stafford, a former No. 1 overall draft pick himself, underachieved in 12 seasons with the Lions as he went 0-3 in three career playoff games. His talent was never in question, however, and the hope was that a change of scenery would elevate his game to another level.
The Rams’ trade for Stafford immediately paid dividends as he went on to enjoy one of the best seasons of his career en route to guiding the franchise to their first Super Bowl title in L.A.
Odell Beckham Jr. joined the team midseason and saw up close how Stafford positively impacts games. The three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver praised the 34-year-old on Twitter and believes he doesn’t get as much credit as he deserves:
Stafford is the real deal….i don’t think much gets talked about that but being there and seein this Shxt up close ! Dude is truly different ! No 🧢
— Odell Beckham Jr (@obj) March 8, 2022
Beckham has played with a handful of quarterbacks in eight NFL seasons, but none as more accomplished as Stafford. His praise for Stafford stands out, especially when considering a falling out with Baker Mayfield led to an unceremonious release from the Cleveland Browns.
Even after tearing his ACL in Super Bowl LVI, the Rams have every intention to work out a new contract with Beckham this offseason. L.A. also plans to extend Stafford, who is entering the final year of his contract. Reports indicate a potential extension could be for as much as $45 million annually.
