As Matthew Stafford heads into his 18th NFL season in 2026, many fans have speculated it may be his last. Amid the conversation, the Rams general manager addressed the rumor and offered insight into their plans for the post-Stafford era.
Rams Reveal Plan for Their Future at Quarterback
As per Rams Senior Staff Writer, Stu Jackson, Snead was quoted on Tuesday saying, “I think I’ve mentioned it before: We’re always working through the scenarios. We’re well aware Matthew’s closer to retirement than not.”
He added, “Matthew and I had a fun text chain or call the night that Philip Rivers was playing a Thursday night game. He was on date night and I’m like, ‘This guy’s 44.’ That was a joking thing, but let’s call it like it is. We’ve all been honest on that. We’re not desperate to. That’s always a possibility, but it’s not a desperate matter.”
As Snead noted, Stafford, 38, may be nearing retirement. With that in mind, the team has been urged to select a developmental quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft who could eventually become his long-term successor.
Despite discussions about the future, the Rams remain committed to the present. This past season, Stafford led the Rams to No. 1 on PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, while the defense ranked fifth among all units.
And, if not for a failed fourth-down conversion in the final moments of the NFC championship, the Rams may have very well claimed their second Lombardi trophy in five seasons.
It is also worth noting that the Rams did not take the loss easily. Days after, during the NFL honors, in which Stafford earned the Most Valuable Player award, he announced he would be returning in 2026. The Rams further proved their point by making the first big splash of the offseason, trading the 29th selection in the upcoming draft for star CB Trent McDuffie.
As previously mentioned, fans have suggested that the franchise either sign a developmental quarterback in free agency or select one in the draft. Notable names include Alabama’s Ty Simpson, Miami’s Carson Beck, and even Penn State’s Drew Allar.
However, it’s clear the Rams’ sole focus is building their supporting cast, and most importantly, making life easier for Stafford.
Looking ahead to 2026, Stafford and the Rams are once again expected to make a deep playoff run, which could potentially serve as his farewell tour. Meanwhile, any decisions regarding his replacement are likely to be deferred until 2027 or later.
