Former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is still expected to finish his career with the Los Angeles Rams despite the team’s surprising first-round selection of quarterback Ty Simpson in the NFL Draft.

Los Angeles used the No. 13 overall pick on Simpson, the former University of Alabama quarterback. The rookie is widely expected to develop behind Stafford while learning the Rams’ offense.

Although the selection sparked speculation about Stafford’s future, reports indicate the Rams remain committed to the veteran as their starting quarterback.
Rams and Matthew Stafford Discussing Contract Extension
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, both Stafford and the Rams are aligned on the team’s plans moving forward.

During an appearance on NFL Network, Rapoport explained that the organization still views Stafford as its starting quarterback and that discussions about a contract extension are ongoing.
Rapoport noted that Rams head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead remain firmly committed to Stafford as the leader of the team’s offense.

“They are in lock step, as basically they have been over the last decade or so,” Rapoport said. “This is really about understanding the Matthew Stafford part of this… this is Stafford’s team for the present and future.”

He added that both sides are working toward a contract extension that would keep Stafford with the Rams beyond the upcoming season and potentially extend his career past 2026.
Lions Continue Building Around Jared Goff

While Stafford’s future in Los Angeles appears stable, the Detroit Lions continue focusing on their own roster after missing the playoffs in the 2025 season.

Detroit has fully committed to quarterback Jared Goff, who arrived in the blockbuster 2021 trade that sent Stafford to Los Angeles.
During the latest NFL Draft, the Lions used the No. 17 overall pick to select Blake Miller, an offensive tackle from Clemson University.

The move helps address a key need following the offseason departure of veteran tackle Taylor Decker.
Brad Holmes Confident in Lions’ New Offensive Line Addition
Lions general manager Brad Holmes expressed strong confidence in Miller’s potential after the selection.

Holmes explained that the coaching staff believes Miller can become a reliable starter, especially as All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell transitions to the left side of the offensive line.

“I mean, look, he’s going to be a good starting tackle already,” Holmes said. “You’ve got high conviction of that… but there’s no telling where this can go.”
Holmes also noted that Miller has continued improving in strength, technique, and hand usage throughout his development.
Rams and Lions Head in Different Directions for 2026

As the Los Angeles Rams aim to remain Super Bowl contenders with Matthew Stafford leading the offense, the Detroit Lions are working to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
With Stafford still firmly in place in Los Angeles and Detroit building around Jared Goff, both teams are shaping their rosters with different goals in mind heading into the 2026 NFL season.