Former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford left the franchise in March 2021 and quickly reached the pinnacle of success, winning a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams in his first season. Now, with his contract situation in flux, some NFL insiders believe the door may be cracked open for a surprising return to Detroit.
While the idea may seem unlikely at first, the possibility is gaining attention as Stafford approaches the final chapter of his NFL career.
Stafford Thriving with Rams, But Future Remains Uncertain
Stafford remains in a favorable situation with the Rams after leading them to the NFC Championship Game on January 25, where Los Angeles fell to the Seattle Seahawks, 31–27. Despite the loss, Stafford posted solid numbers and continued to show he can still perform at a high level.
Last offseason, the Rams gave Stafford a $26 million raise over two years after briefly exploring trade options. According to Over the Cap, he has one year remaining on his deal that will pay him $40 million in 2026, ranking him as the 11th-highest-paid quarterback for that season.
With Stafford likely seeking another contract adjustment, negotiations with the Rams could become complicated — opening the door for other teams to explore a potential move.
Detroit Free Press Suggests Stafford Should Return to Lions
In a February 1 column for the Detroit Free Press, Carlos Monarrez made the case that Stafford and his family should consider returning to Detroit to finish his career.
Monarrez argued that Stafford played well enough this season to be “preparing to play in the Super Bowl” and said that an MVP award and another championship would cement his legacy in a career that began in Detroit 17 years ago.
He also noted Stafford’s mobility and ability to extend plays during the Lions’ December loss to the Rams, suggesting Detroit could have reached the playoffs with Stafford under center.
“The more I watched Stafford this year — in person and on TV — the more I was convinced the Lions would have easily made the playoffs with him,” Monarrez wrote.
He closed with a poetic question:
“Wouldn’t it be fitting if, years after letting Stafford go, the Lions made an even bolder move by bringing him back?”
Would Stafford Really Return to Detroit?
Before the Rams’ December 14, 2025 matchup with the Lions, Stafford made it clear he was content in Los Angeles.
“Obviously, I’m happy to be where I am,” Stafford said. “The Lions capitalized on the picks and players they got from the trade. Their franchise is as good as it’s been in years.”
Stafford also said the blockbuster trade worked for both sides, calling the Rams and Lions “two successful teams” with strong coaching staffs and football programs.
Those comments suggest Stafford has no immediate plans to leave Los Angeles — but the NFL has a long history of unexpected reunions.
Could the Lions Make a Bold Move?
If negotiations between Stafford and the Rams stall, Detroit could become an intriguing option, especially if the Lions seek veteran stability at quarterback. A reunion would be one of the most dramatic moves in franchise history and would instantly reshape Detroit’s 2026 outlook.
For now, the idea remains speculative — but Stafford’s contract situation ensures the possibility cannot be ruled out.
