Matthew Stafford’s future in the NFL is once again under the spotlight following the Los Angeles Rams’ NFC Championship loss. While speculation continues about whether Stafford will retire after the 2025–26 season, recent comments from his wife, Kelly Stafford, may offer a clue about what lies ahead.
Former NFL quarterback and NBC Sports analyst Chris Simms believes Stafford should keep playing.
“The Rams are in the window, in a big-time way,” Simms said. “They’re here to stay for the next few years with the way their team is built. If I was Matthew Stafford and the way he’s playing, I certainly wouldn’t be thinking about retiring.”
Stafford Addresses Retirement Rumors
After the loss, Stafford was asked directly if he plans to retire. His response made it clear he is not ready to make any decisions.
“I can’t generalize six months of my life 10 minutes after a loss,” Stafford said, according to ESPN. “I appreciate the guys in this locker room a whole hell of a lot… and that’s all I’ll answer for you.”
His comments suggest he remains focused on the team rather than future plans.
Kelly Stafford’s Social Media Posts Spark Speculation
Kelly Stafford’s recent Instagram activity has fueled discussion about whether her husband will return for another season.
Following the NFC Championship game, she posted highlight clips of Stafford with the caption:
“Stafford making high difficulty throws look routine.”
She also shared the Rams’ thank-you message to fans and uploaded multiple videos from the season, including moments featuring their children at a Rams vs. Seahawks game.
In an earlier post, Kelly joked about the emotional toll of football, writing:
“Anyone else feel like the stress of these games is shaving years off your life?”
Her posts appear supportive and reflective of a family still invested in the journey—suggesting Stafford may not be ready to walk away just yet.
Do the Rams Want Matthew Stafford Back?
All signs point to the Rams being open to another season with Stafford under center. Head coach Sean McVay praised his team and expressed gratitude following the loss.
“I love our group. The finality of all of it didn’t ever really expect this,” McVay said. “We came here with the expectation to win… It was a great back-and-forth by two great teams.”
McVay added:
“This is one of my all-time favorite teams. Nothing but gratitude for these guys.”
While McVay did not directly address Stafford’s future, his remarks reflect confidence in the current roster and appreciation for what the quarterback brings to the team.
What’s Next for Stafford?
Matthew Stafford has not made a retirement announcement, and neither the Rams nor his family have suggested this season was his last. Kelly Stafford’s social media posts show pride and support, which could signal that the veteran quarterback still has at least one more season in him.
For now, Stafford remains noncommittal—but the evidence suggests the door is still wide open for a return in 2026.
