Matthew Stafford spent more than a decade as the face of the Detroit Lions, serving as the team’s starting quarterback from 2009 through 2020. While he never led Detroit to a Super Bowl appearance, his impact on the franchise remains significant, and Lions fans continue to keep a close eye on what comes next for him.
That ongoing curiosity about Stafford’s future recently got an update from Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay, who addressed speculation about whether his veteran quarterback might be nearing retirement.
The Rams’ season came to a disappointing end with a narrow 31–27 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, January 25, eliminating them from Super Bowl contention. After the game, McVay spoke candidly about the emotional toll of the defeat, admitting the moment felt “pretty numb.”
“When you’re so locked in on advancing and believe you’re going to be the team standing on that podium, the finality hits hard when it doesn’t happen,” McVay said. “Credit to Seattle, but I love this group. I usually have plenty to say, and right now I don’t.”
Despite the painful ending, McVay made it clear that Stafford would be welcomed back if he decides to play another season. During a press conference on Monday, February 2, McVay expressed hope that his quarterback isn’t ready to walk away just yet.
“I’m crossing my fingers, just like everyone else, that he wants to keep playing,” McVay said, according to Associated Press reporter Greg Beacham. Beacham added that McVay appeared optimistic about Stafford’s return while also emphasizing that the decision would be entirely up to the quarterback.
McVay was also asked whether he planned to watch the Super Bowl. His answer reflected just how painful the playoff loss still felt.
“I’m not sure,” he said. “Part of me might watch just to torture myself. That loss hurt more than any I’ve experienced, and that’s because of how much I care about this team. So I don’t know if I’ll tune in.”
Stafford Still Content With Rams–Lions Trade
Before the Rams faced the Lions on December 14, 2025, Stafford spoke openly about his blockbuster trade from Detroit to Los Angeles and made it clear he has no regrets.
“I’m obviously happy with where I am,” Stafford said. “And the Lions have done an incredible job using the picks and players they got in that deal. Their organization is probably in the best place it’s ever been over the past several years.”
He went on to note that both franchises benefited from the move.
“You’ve got two strong teams, great coaching staffs, and solid football cultures right now,” Stafford said. “It feels like a trade that worked for everyone involved, and I think people will continue to see it that way as time goes on.”
Beyond career success, Stafford also gained some lifestyle perks from the move—namely avoiding Michigan’s harsh winters. Of course, the biggest reward was capturing a Super Bowl title with the Rams. Still, there’s hope that Jared Goff and the Lions can eventually bring a championship back to Detroit as well.
