Former Lions QB Matthew Stafford May Leave Rams Soon
A recent report suggests that ex-Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is moving closer to parting ways with the Los Angeles Rams.
While the Detroit Lions focus on coaching and roster adjustments this offseason, their former signal-caller, Matthew Stafford, is also facing a critical decision. Stafford led the Rams to the playoffs last season and has expressed his desire to continue playing for at least another year. However, it remains uncertain if he will stay with the Rams.
Now, new information suggests that Stafford’s tenure in Los Angeles might be coming to an end sooner rather than later.
Report: Rams Grant Stafford Permission to Seek Trade Options
NFL analyst Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network revealed on The Rich Eisen Show that the Rams have given Stafford’s representatives permission to explore trade opportunities with other teams. While this doesn’t guarantee Stafford’s departure, it strongly indicates that Los Angeles is open to moving on from their Super Bowl-winning quarterback.
Pelissero also noted that Stafford’s contract restructuring last season turned his deal into a year-to-year arrangement, similar to what Tom Brady did with the Patriots late in his career. After the 2023 season, Stafford agreed to a short-term salary increase for 2024, but no long-term commitment was made. His contract carries a $49.6 million cap hit in 2025, and the Rams could save $27 million by trading him after June 1 or $23 million if they move him before then.
Stafford’s Wife Supports Potential Move
Stafford’s wife, Kelly, has never been shy about sharing her opinions publicly. On the February 6 episode of her podcast, she made revealing comments about the possibility of her husband leaving the Rams. During The Morning After With Kelly Stafford and Hank, she discussed the Cooper Kupp trade and touched on Stafford’s situation.
“I wasn’t planning to talk about this, but… why not?” she said. “My husband wants to win. He’s not trying to put a team in a bad position. If you get what I’m saying, you get it.”
She continued, “I have to be the tough one in this situation and demand the respect he deserves. Yes, I love L.A., but I also love an adventure.”
Kelly also mentioned the Rams’ decision to trade Kupp, expressing her confusion. “Trading Cooper, I guess I’m just a little puzzled,” she said. “We were one play away from reaching the NFC Championship, and I believe if we had made it, we would have won.”
The Rams finished the season with an 11-8 record, reaching the playoffs before losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles, 28-22, in the NFL Divisional Round on January 19.