Following their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional Round, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford said he believes he still has some good football left in him.
Stafford and the Rams have had a fruitful partnership over the years, with the veteran immediately delivering a Super Bowl in his first year with the team and working alongside head coach Sean McVay. Stafford became underrated due to the lack of playoff success with the Detroit Lions, but he has shown the NFL that he is one of the best when it comes to postseason play.
However, there is some doubt as to whether or not Stafford will return to Los Angeles for the 2025 season as the team works to clear salary cap. The Rams have let go of popular stars in the past, and the sense is there’s a legitimate possibility that Stafford could be traded or let go.
Prior to training camp last year, Stafford and L.A. worked through contract details before agreeing on a restructured deal. This time around, though, McVay is hoping to have logistics sorted out much sooner than later, via Greg Beacham of the Associate Press:
“We don’t want to have that go on again,” McVay said. “I don’t think that’s good for anybody. I think sooner than later, being able to get that clarity, understanding, open and honest communication. I think there’s a lot of love coming from our part. I think there’s a lot of appreciation coming from his part as well, and I think a lot sooner than later is an ideal scenario.”
McVay added that he still believes in Stafford to deliver on the field and is looking forward to talking with him more following their much-needed break:
“The quarterback is always the first thing in mind as it relates to how you move forward with the team,” McVay said. “I think (Stafford) is playing really good football, and when we get back, we’ll talk about all those types of things. I’m really proud of the way that he’s played. I think the coolest thing you could say about Matthew is he shines the brightest on the biggest stages.”
Stafford may be past his prime at this point, but there’s no doubt that he can deliver when the games matter most.
Additionally, there aren’t quality quarterback options just laying around and the Rams don’t have a high draft pick to address it. So L.A.’s priority will certainly be bringing Stafford back, and hopefully he is in alignment with that.
Cooper Kupp wants to continue playing but uncertain of future with Rams
Like Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp’s time with the Rams could also be coming to an end as he admitted he’s unsure of his future with the team despite wanting to play again next year.
