Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is gearing up for what’s expected to be an exciting 2025 season, with the team eyeing another playoff run. One particular game on the schedule stands out — a late-season matchup against the Detroit Lions, Stafford’s former team.

Stafford, who began his NFL career as the Lions’ top pick in the 2009 draft, will face his old squad in Week 15 in Los Angeles. This meeting marks the third showdown between the Rams and Lions since Stafford was traded in 2021, and he currently holds a 1-2 record in those contests, including a playoff defeat in 2024. Despite two straight losses to Detroit, Stafford is looking forward to another opportunity to take them on, calling the game a “fun battle.”

He expressed admiration for Lions head coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff — the latter was part of the trade that sent Stafford to LA. Stafford acknowledged the team’s progress but noted that the loss of key coaching staff could present challenges.

“Dan and Jared have done an outstanding job rebuilding that team. They’ve been playing at a high level,” Stafford said during an NFL Network interview on May 14, as reported by Pro Football Talk. “They lost some coaches, and that always makes things tougher. Every season is a clean slate. We’ve had great games against them recently, and hosting them in December should make for another exciting matchup.”

The Rams advanced further in the postseason last year than the Lions. While Detroit fell to Minnesota in the Wild Card round, LA pushed the eventual Super Bowl champs, the Eagles, to the edge in the Divisional Round.

While the Rams dealt with some personnel changes this offseason, they’ve retained core figures in Stafford and head coach Sean McVay. Early outlooks project another strong showing in 2025, with a potential double-digit win season.

Stafford Still in Contact With Kupp Despite Division Rivalry

Stafford also addressed the recent departure of longtime teammate Cooper Kupp. After the Rams released Kupp this offseason and failed to find a trade, the veteran wideout landed with the division rival Seattle Seahawks.

Though now wearing a different jersey, Kupp remains close to Stafford. The two have stayed in touch via text, with Stafford joking about seeing his friend on the opposite sideline this year.

“I reached out to him just to say hey,” Stafford shared. “We still give each other a hard time. I asked if we’d get a moment before kickoff, and he said he’d give me a big bear hug.”

Stafford reflected on their shared success but acknowledged the reality of the business. “It’s tough parting ways with someone you’ve done a lot with on the field. But this league is always changing, and we both understand that,” he added.

Despite their friendship, Stafford made it clear he wants to come out on top when the Rams face the Seahawks in Weeks 11 and 16.

Journalist Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic suggested Kupp may be especially motivated in those matchups, particularly if he stays healthy late in the year. She also noted that Seattle’s defense made strides last season and could pose a threat in 2025.

New Era with Davante Adams Begins

To help fill the void left by Kupp, the Rams added former Packers and Jets star wide receiver Davante Adams during free agency. Adams, once a fierce opponent of Stafford’s in NFC North clashes, now joins forces with him in LA.

Stafford is enthusiastic about the addition, praising Adams’ skills and professionalism.

“I’ve admired him for a long time. His resume speaks for itself, but being around him every day now, working together, he fits in perfectly,” Stafford said.

He also commended Adams’ work ethic and approach to the game, noting that Adams shares the competitive spirit found in many of the top receivers Stafford has worked with during his time with the Rams.

The Rams’ front office, led by general manager Les Snead, has played a major role in setting the team up for success. Snead recently referred to the restructuring of Stafford’s deal as a “renewal of vows,” reaffirming the quarterback’s place at the center of the franchise’s plans.

Stafford, for his part, is ready for the challenge. “I feel good, but it’s about going out there and showing it,” he said.