The Los Angeles Rams are facing a major decision regarding quarterback Matthew Stafford, and all signs point to significant movement in the coming weeks. NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that Stafford has reportedly been permitted to explore trade opportunities with other teams, signaling that his time in L.A. could be coming to an end.
Matthew Stafford, Rams Have Uncertain Future
Stafford emerged with flying colors in what was considered a strong season for the Rams this year. However, there is uncertainty surrounding his future. NFL insider Tom Pelissero made a guest appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show,” where he explained that the team has allowed his agent to speak with other franchises to gauge potential trade interest.
“My understanding has been that the Rams have been in conversations with his agent, that they’ve also given his agent permission to talk to other clubs and just figure out, ‘Hey, if he became available, if there were a trade, what would the numbers be elsewhere?’ That takes care of multiple things,” Pelissero informed.
There is more to the story. Pelissero feels that there is more than one question in the Stafford-Rams dynamic. Going further, he floated the idea of the two sticking together with a new contract in place despite what the current situation suggests.
“It takes care of, No. 1, what Matthew Stafford could get if we got to a trade because you wouldn’t be able to execute a Matthew Stafford trade without having a new deal in place. But also, it gives the Rams an idea, and Stafford an idea of, ‘Hey, we’re going to try to work together. Are we going to be able to work out a new contract to keep him in L.A.?” added Pelissero.
Could Matthew Stafford really end up playing somewhere other than Los Angeles in 2025? When might a decision be made on his #NFL home?#NFLCombine #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/T4KFvFZHbN
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 21, 2025
There is more talk around Stafford, as Jordan Schultz noted that multiple teams have already inquired about the veteran, with the Rams likely asking for a first-round pick.
Excited to launch a new column for @NFLonFOX — “NFL Confidential” — where I break down the latest buzz I’m hearing.
This week’s topics: Matthew Stafford, the Bengals’ WR situation, the Saints’ coaching staff and the Jaguars’ GM search:https://t.co/7vdonfx2Ek
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 19, 2025
The Rams still value Stafford, and there’s no clear indication that he’s pushing for a move. Reports suggest both sides will meet at the NFL Combine to determine if they can reach a financial agreement.
Stafford briefly considered retirement following the 2024 season but has also stated that he envisions playing for several more years. If he stays in L.A., the Rams must restructure his deal to ease the financial burden. If he’s traded, a new contract will likely be required for his next destination, giving way to a new storyline next season.
The 16-year veteran passer finished the 2024 season with a grade of 71.9, 22nd in the NFL per PFSN’s QB+ metric, despite missing both of his top pass-catchers — Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp — for significant stretches due to injuries.