The NFL offseason came earlier for the Los Angeles Rams than they planned, and head coach Sean McVay hopes that a decision from their quarterback Matthew Stafford on his future comes earlier than last year.
McVay did not provide updates on his veteran’s plans for the 2025 season during his end-of-season press conference on Thursday (Jan. 23) but made it clear he wants an answer “sooner than later” from their star.
Rams HC Sean McVay Eager for Clarity From QB Matthew Stafford
McVay sounded eager to confirm whether or not Stafford will be returning to the Rams for a fifth season. The front office spent much of the past offseason working on changes requested by Stafford to his contract, only completing the deal on reporting day for training camp.
The #Rams and QB Matthew Stafford have now agreed to terms on his adjusted contract, sources say, as he gets an additional $5M this year (money moved forward from a later contract year) and an additional $4M guaranteed roster bonus next year. https://t.co/gs4BPvTI2g
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 28, 2024
“We don’t want to have that go on again,” McVay said, referring to last offseason’s drawn-out process. “I don’t think that’s good for anybody. I think sooner than later, being able to get that clarity. Understanding clear, 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.”
When asked if Stafford would still be in Los Angeles if he opted to return, McVay didn’t disclose much.
“We’ll talk about all those things at the appropriate time,” he said.
“I know he’s playing really good football. Obviously, I love him, love working with him. What he’s meant to our football team has been immeasurable in a positive way … The quarterback is always the first thing in mind as it relates to how you move forward with the team.”
Stafford Dodges Retirement Rumors After Playoff Loss to Eagles
Stafford has been considering retirement for the past couple of seasons. Nearing 37, he’s one of the league’s oldest starting quarterbacks, second only to Aaron Rodgers, who is 41.
Following the Rams’ Jan. 19 playoff loss to the Eagles, Stafford dodged questions about retirement, saying he only wanted to talk about the present.
In an interview leading up to the 2024 season, Stafford revealed that he hopes to play for another few seasons.
“I definitely appreciate my opportunities and appreciate this game. I mean, it’s given me a ton. I hope I’ve got three or four more left in me. We’ll see. Every year is a new year, but I do feel good,” Stafford said on the “Pardon My Take” podcast last August.
Stafford’s current contract, accounting for nearly 19% of the Rams’ 2025 salary cap, expires after the 2026 season.
Stafford Would Be Hard-Pressed To Find Better Situation Than With Rams
If Stafford wants to continue playing, it might be difficult to find a better situation than his current one in LA. The Rams are always hovering around contender status, thanks to an electric offense, a bevy of skill-position guys, and McVay’s pragmatism.
This year, in a very down year as the 22nd-best quarterback in the league, according to PFN’s QB+ metric, Stafford was still able to support the 11th-best offense in the league by PFN’s Offense+ metric.