The Los Angeles Rams are heading into an offseason filled with big questions, and at the center of it all is their veteran quarterback, Matthew Stafford. Will he stay in LA for another season? Will his contract be restructured? What does this mean for the Rams' future?
The Good News: Stafford Plans to Play in 2025
For Rams fans holding their breath about their franchise quarterback’s future, here’s a sigh of relief—Matthew Stafford intends to keep playing in 2025. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the 16-year NFL veteran has every intention of suiting up for his 17th season. That’s huge for a Rams team that has built much of its recent success around him.
Stafford, at 37, still looks like a top-tier quarterback. His arm strength remains elite, his leadership is unquestioned, and his ability to make pinpoint throws was on full display this past season. If there were any doubts about whether he could still perform at a high level, those were put to rest with his on-field performances. The Rams undoubtedly want to keep him leading their offense, but there’s one big hurdle—the financial aspect of his contract.
The Contract Conundrum
While Stafford is committed to playing, the Rams must address his current contract situation. His deal has two years remaining, but here’s the catch—his 2025 salary of $27 million isn’t guaranteed. That’s a significant factor, considering Stafford likely won’t be willing to play under those terms.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport highlighted this issue, saying, “He’s due $27 million next year, not guaranteed, and I have a hard time imagining Matthew Stafford plays for that.” Last summer, just before training camp, Stafford and the Rams worked out a one-year, $40 million deal to ensure he was properly compensated. Given that precedent, it wouldn’t be surprising if a similar renegotiation happens again this offseason.
Timing is Everything
One of the key deadlines in this situation is the start of the new league year in March. Stafford has a $4 million bonus due on the third day of that cycle, which means the Rams will likely want to have a new contract worked out before then. The team has every incentive to make it happen sooner rather than later.
This is more than just about numbers on a contract—it’s about securing stability at the most important position in football. The Rams' success in the past four seasons has been largely tied to Stafford’s play, and it’s hard to imagine them willingly letting him go over contract disputes.
Why Keeping Stafford Makes Sense for the Rams
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Still Elite: Stafford showed no signs of slowing down last season, proving he can still make every throw on the field with precision and power.
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Team Chemistry: He has built a strong connection with the Rams’ offense, especially young playmakers like Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams.
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Playoff Pedigree: Having led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 2022, Stafford has the experience and leadership needed for another championship run.
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Limited Alternatives: The quarterback market is unpredictable, and replacing Stafford with someone of equal caliber would be a tough task.
What’s Next?
The Rams’ front office has some decisions to make, but barring any major surprises, it’s hard to see a scenario where they don’t work something out with Stafford. The financial details will need ironing out, but both sides seem motivated to keep the partnership going.
For Stafford, this is another opportunity to prove he’s still one of the game’s elite passers. For the Rams, it’s a chance to maintain continuity and stability as they look to compete in a tough NFC.
So while the numbers need adjusting, the sentiment remains the same—Stafford wants to be in LA, and the Rams want him there. Now it’s just about making the math work. Expect plenty of negotiations in the coming months, but in all likelihood, Matthew Stafford will be back under center for the Rams in 2025, aiming for another deep playoff run.
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