Former Detroit Lions and current Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is in the news frequently due to uncertainty about his future in Los Angeles. Stafford has expressed his desire to continue playing in the NFL in 2025. However, many analysts believe there’s a possibility he could play for a different team.
An NFL insider has now provided clarity on Stafford’s situation.
While some teams were eager to pursue a veteran quarterback with a Super Bowl victory, it appears Stafford is unlikely to be traded. ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported on February 8 that Stafford is expected to return to the Rams in 2025.
“Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is likely to return to L.A. in 2025, according to sources close to the situation,” Graziano wrote. However, the Rams will need to restructure his contract again to reduce the cap hit and convert his salary into bonuses.
Similarly, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that Rams officials don’t appear overly worried about Stafford leaving despite the contract challenges. He added that while trade talks could happen, no immediate changes are expected.
Although nothing is certain, it increasingly looks like Stafford will stay in Los Angeles. This seems logical for both sides. With the Rams trading Cooper Kupp, they can’t afford to lose another key player. Stafford, who led the Rams to the playoffs this season, remains crucial to the team’s success.
At the end of last season, Stafford signed a short-term deal for 2024 with no firm contract for 2025. He currently carries a $49.6 million cap hit for 2025. If traded after June 1, the Rams could save $27 million, while trading him earlier would save $23 million.
Interestingly, Stafford’s wife, Kelly, seems open to the idea of a trade. On her podcast, “The Morning After with Kelly Stafford and Hank,” she discussed the recent Cooper Kupp trade and hinted at her husband’s willingness to move on.
“My husband wants to win,” Kelly said. “He’s not trying to put a team in a tough spot. If you’re catching my drift, you’re catching my drift.” While she loves Los Angeles, Kelly added that she’s always ready for a new adventure.
