The future of Matthew Stafford with the Los Angeles Rams continues to spark conversation as the veteran quarterback approaches the later stages of his career. With Stafford’s current contract running through 2026, speculation about his eventual retirement has only intensified.

However, his wife, Kelly Stafford, recently suggested that the Rams star may not be planning to step away anytime soon.

Kelly Stafford believes Matthew Stafford could play several more seasons

During a recent Instagram Q&A session with fans, Kelly Stafford addressed the possibility of her husband continuing his NFL career for several more years.

When asked if the veteran quarterback could play for another five seasons, Kelly responded with a lighthearted but revealing message. She shared a photo of Stafford alongside their four daughters—Sawyer, Chandler, Hunter and Tyler—and wrote, “Up to these 4 ladies… but I could see that happening.”

Her comment hints that the 38-year-old quarterback may still have multiple seasons left in the tank despite ongoing retirement rumors.

Rams draft QB Ty Simpson as potential successor

The Rams appear to be preparing for the future while still fully supporting Stafford as their starter. During the 2026 NFL Draft, Los Angeles selected Ty Simpson, a quarterback from University of Alabama, with the No. 13 overall pick.

While the selection could signal long-term planning for life after Stafford, Rams head coach Sean McVay made it clear that the team’s leadership remains firmly behind their veteran signal-caller.

“Let’s make one thing clear: this is Matthew’s team,” McVay said on draft night, emphasizing that Simpson’s addition is about preparing for the future rather than replacing Stafford anytime soon.

Stafford confirms commitment to Rams for 2026 season

Despite the speculation, Stafford himself has already addressed his short-term future with the Rams.

During the 2026 NFL Honors ceremony on February 5, Stafford confirmed he plans to return for the 2026 season while accepting his first league MVP award.

Standing on stage with his four daughters, Stafford delivered a message that thrilled Rams fans.

“To my four beautiful daughters who I am lucky enough to be sharing the stage with … I am so happy to have you at the games, on the sideline with me, and I can’t wait for you to cheer me on next year when we’re out there kicking ass,” Stafford said. “So I’ll see you guys next year.”

Historic MVP season fuels Stafford’s return

Stafford’s decision to continue playing followed a remarkable 2025 campaign. The Rams quarterback led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdown passes, while throwing just eight interceptions across 17 games.

His dominant performance earned him the league’s MVP award, narrowly edging out Drake Maye of the New England Patriots in the closest MVP voting margin since 2003.

Backstage at the ceremony, Stafford explained that his decision involved careful discussions with his family.

“Something I’ve been thinking about and honestly talking with my family about—even before the season ended—was whether they wanted me to continue playing and whether I still wanted to keep going,” Stafford said.

Rams working toward potential contract extension

Financially, the Rams have already shown their commitment to their star quarterback. In May 2025, Stafford finalized a deal that paid him $44 million for the 2025 season.

Reports have since indicated that the Rams have made significant progress toward a potential contract extension, even though Stafford’s current deal runs through 2026.

Head coach Sean McVay has repeatedly emphasized that the quarterback has earned the right to decide his future on his own timeline.

“Matthew has earned the right to take it year-to-year,” McVay said, adding that the organization would be open to extending his contract if that’s the direction Stafford wants to go.