After 16 NFL seasons, Matthew Stafford has seen both lows and highs, and his career stands as one of the best stories in football. Starting with the Detroit Lions after an 0-16, Stafford was the bright spot in an otherwise dim era. Yet, his greatest achievements came with the Los Angeles Rams, where he led the team to their first Super Bowl victory this century.
Stafford took Los Angeles by storm, and with his championship, he cemented his place as a two-city icon. As he takes another step toward a deep playoff run, speculation about his retirement is swirling, with everyone wondering about the quarterback’s next steps.
Is Retirement on the Horizon For Matthew Stafford?
Stafford will turn 37 on Feb. 7, just days before Super Bowl 59. As the NFL’s second-oldest starting quarterback after Aaron Rodgers, his age naturally raises questions about finally hanging up his cleats.
However, Stafford hasn’t given any formal indication of stepping away. Speaking on the “Pardon My Take” podcast before the 2024 season, Stafford expressed optimism about continuing to play.
“I hope I’ve got three or four more [seasons] left in me. We’ll see. Every year is a new year, but I do feel good,” he said.
As long as Stafford’s health permits and his passion remains intact, it’s likely he’ll continue suiting up for the Rams. His current contract situation suggests he’ll stay in Los Angeles, too.
In March 2022, he signed a four-year, $160 million extension, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season. While the deal has been renegotiated, its value remains the same. The contract’s structure and Stafford’s performance show the Rams aren’t planning for an imminent transition at quarterback after their latest Wild Card win, a 27-9 rout of the Minnesota Vikings.
Stafford’s career numbers are among the game’s best. The Texas native has 59,809 passing yards, 377 touchdowns, and 188 interceptions to his name, making him highly ranked among the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks. His best statistical season came in 2011 with the Lions, throwing for 5,038 yards and 41 touchdowns.
His transition to Los Angeles proved transformative, particularly for his reputation. In his debut season with the Rams, Stafford threw for 4,886 yards and 41 touchdowns, bringing a Super Bowl victory home. Despite battling injuries in recent years, he’s remained a reliable leader.
Stafford is ranked 22nd in the 2024 NFL QB+ rankings by PFN. His playoff performance should only improve that standing.
While retirement is a possibility, Stafford’s expressed desire to keep playing and his current contract point to spending at least one more season with the Rams. With Los Angeles managing to quickly reload talent each offseason, Stafford could regularly find himself in the playoffs until he calls it quits.