The NFL offseason is moving quickly, even though it feels like Super Bowl 59 just happened. With free agency in the past and the 2025 draft completed nearly two weeks ago, all 32 teams — including the Detroit Lions — are now focused on rookie minicamps and upcoming organized team activities (OTAs).
As the Lions gear up for this weekend’s minicamp, fans have a chance to catch up on what some former players are doing. While some ex-Detroit players are struggling to secure roster spots, one former Lion has just signed a new contract that’s making waves.
On Monday, NFL insider Ian Rapoport revealed that the Los Angeles Rams have restructured quarterback Matthew Stafford’s contract. The former Lions QB’s new deal, reportedly negotiated during the NFL Combine, boosts his salary over the next two years from \$58 million to \$84 million. Additionally, Stafford is set to make \$40 million guaranteed next season.
Stafford, now 37, has long been considered one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks since being drafted first overall by the Lions in 2009. During his 12 seasons in Detroit, the ex-Georgia Bulldog led the team to a 108-113-1 record, completing 62.6% of passes for 45,109 yards, 282 touchdowns, and an 89.9 passer rating.
His accomplishments include a 2013 Pro Bowl selection and winning the 2011 Comeback Player of the Year award. Stafford’s Lions tenure ended in March 2021 when he was traded to the Rams in exchange for QB Jared Goff and three draft picks. It’s hard to believe it’s been over four years since the trade, but time has flown.
Since joining the Rams, Stafford’s tenure has been undeniably successful. Los Angeles holds a 34-23 record in the 57 games he started over four seasons, during which he completed 65.7% of passes for 14,700 yards, 95 touchdowns, and a 95.2 passer rating. In seven postseason games, he boasts a 5-2 record with 2,088 yards and 15 touchdowns, highlighted by winning Super Bowl LVI in his debut year with the team.
Fans got to see Stafford again when the Lions hosted the Rams in Week 1 of the 2024 season. Detroit ultimately prevailed, leaving Ford Field with a 26-20 overtime win. The next chapter between the teams will unfold this fall when the Lions visit the Rams at SoFi Stadium.
