Former Lions QB Matthew Stafford Could Hinder Detroit’s Super Bowl Aspirations

Matthew Stafford, the former Detroit Lions quarterback, might become a barrier to the Lions’ Super Bowl hopes, according to an NFL analyst. Stafford, now with the Los Angeles Rams, has surfaced in trade discussions ahead of the NFL’s November 5 deadline.

If a trade occurs, he could land with a key competitor for the Lions. After joining the Rams in 2021, Stafford won a Super Bowl in his first season. If he’s traded, his value will be high.

An NFL analyst speculates that Stafford may prefer a trade to a rival team to “block” Detroit’s path to the Super Bowl.

Stafford May ‘Desire a Change’

On October 22, NFL commentator Mike Florio from NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk endorsed the notion of Stafford moving to NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings. “There are unconfirmed discussions between the Vikings and Rams about a trade,” Florio said. “I support the move, as Stafford would elevate the Vikings to true Super Bowl contenders.”

Yahoo Sports senior reporter Charles Robinson noted on October 23 that while a Stafford trade seems “highly unlikely,” it could have its benefits. “Stafford shares a history with Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell from their brief 2009 Lions offseason,” Robinson wrote.

This could lead to some revenge for the Lions. “I won’t go into too much detail, but Stafford might relish the opportunity to disrupt the Lions and Jared Goff’s playoff chances,” Robinson added. “I believe he would.”

If the pieces fall into place, the Vikings could contend for the Super Bowl. They have only lost to the Lions this season and consistently rank high in NFL Power Rankings.

Michael Rand of the Minnesota Star Tribune supports the idea of Stafford joining Minnesota but warns of financial implications. “The Vikings could manage the costs,” he said on October 24. “However, they have a plan with J.J. McCarthy for 2025 and limited draft capital next year. A significant trade before November 5 might need their first-round pick.”

He also questioned, “Is a 36-year-old Stafford a substantial upgrade over Sam Darnold, who has led them well despite a recent slump?”

Another Report Refutes Stafford Trade Speculation

Before Lions fans become overly worried about Stafford potentially joining the Vikings, Vikings reporter Ben Goessling from the Star Tribune dismissed the rumors on October 23. Goessling posted on X, stating, “I checked on the Stafford-to-the-Vikings rumors. A source says there’s no truth to any trade discussions.”

However, the NFL is unpredictable, and surprises are common. Only time will tell if Stafford will don a Vikings jersey in the future.