Matthew Stafford, the current quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams and former Detroit Lions player, began his NFL career in 2009 and is familiar with the time of year when starters are sometimes rested. Rams head coach Sean McVay recently made an announcement regarding Stafford’s status for the Week 18 game against the Seattle Seahawks, which will take place on Sunday, January 5, at SoFi Stadium.

On Friday, January 3, McVay informed reporters that he has decided to give Stafford the game off. Stafford is listed as inactive for the game on the Friday injury report, but the reason is “not injury related.”

McVay Comments on Rams’ Health

McVay’s decision to rest Stafford comes as no surprise, as the Rams have already secured a playoff spot and are currently in first place in the NFC West. With the playoffs approaching, McVay wants to ensure that his top players are in optimal condition for the postseason.

Stafford, 36, was the first overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions and later traded to the Rams in 2021 in exchange for quarterback Jared Goff and draft picks.

Before practice on Friday, McVay shared with reporters, “Fortunately for us, we’ve been relatively healthy.” He acknowledged some challenges, particularly along the offensive line, but emphasized that players would be able to go if the game were a regular one. McVay also stated that they are prioritizing caution for both banged-up offensive linemen and skill players who have already had significant playing time and are more experienced.

Who Will Succeed Matthew Stafford?

With Stafford’s career winding down and at 36 years old, NFL analysts have begun speculating about his future and when he might retire. When that time comes, the Rams will need to find a new quarterback.

Blaine Grisak of Turf Show Times suggests that J.J. McCarthy, the injured Minnesota Vikings quarterback, could be a potential option for the Rams. Currently, the Vikings are relying on quarterback Sam Darnold while McCarthy remains sidelined.

One advantage of McCarthy joining the Rams would be his familiarity with the offensive system. McCarthy spent his rookie year learning from Kevin O’Connell, who was the Rams’ former offensive coordinator and now leads the Minnesota Vikings. Grisak pointed out that McCarthy would already be accustomed to the offense, and the connection between O’Connell and McVay might help facilitate trade talks. They’ve worked together before, notably in the Cam Akers trade.

Regardless of whether McCarthy is in the Rams’ future plans, the team will need to address the quarterback position during the offseason. Backup Jimmy Garoppolo’s contract is set to expire soon, and Stetson Bennett will be entering his third year.

Grisak added, “With Stafford getting older, it may be time to start considering a potential heir, and McCarthy would be a good fit.”