Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford signed a contract extension with the team in 2022, right after their Super Bowl victory. The four-year deal ensures he will remain with the team until the end of the 2025-2026 season.
In his first season with the Rams after leaving Detroit, Stafford posted impressive numbers with 4,886 passing yards and 41 touchdown passes, tying Kurt Warner’s record in the first season of the 17-game NFL schedule. His passing yards rank third in franchise history, and his touchdown passes are the second highest.
The lucrative $160 million deal included $135 million guaranteed, positioning Stafford to potentially finish his career in Los Angeles. As of 2024, he has $31 million guaranteed left and is seeking a new contract. Considering his value even at age 36, he has a strong case for a pay raise.
Analysts think the Rams should meet Matthew Stafford’s demands. ProFootballTalk analyst Mike Florio shared his thoughts on The Pat McAfee Show, saying, “The Rams keep saying it’s coming. If Stafford doesn’t get it, would he really take a stand and not show up? I don’t think it’s in his DNA.”
Despite Stafford’s injuries, it’s evident that Sean McVay’s Rams are a different team without him. Florio mentioned former LA quarterback Jared Goff, now with the Detroit Lions, who replaced Stafford in Detroit, as an example of taking a stand to get what you deserve.
“But sometimes you have to take that stand to get what you deserve. Jared Goff is earning $53 million a year, and the Rams gave up a first-round pick to get rid of him for Stafford, who is making $40 million. Stafford is clearly due for an adjustment.” Time will tell if the Rams agree, but there’s not much time to waste.
