It has not taken lengthy for Matthew Stafford‘s instant future to change into settled. The Rams are set to have their beginning quarterback in place as soon as once more for 2025.
Stafford has knowledgeable the crew of his intention of enjoying subsequent season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. His age-37 season will likely be his fifth in Los Angeles, and expectations will stay excessive given his stage of play when wholesome for the Rams.
Stafford declined to substantiate within the wake of the Rams’ divisional spherical loss whether or not or not he would proceed his profession, though his feedback hinted that would be the case.
Shortly thereafter, head coach Sean McVay stated the crew hoped to study of the two-time Professional Bowler’s intentions sooner rather than later. That query has seemingly been put to relaxation, though Rapoport notes one other spherical of contract changes could also be so as this offseason. The edges labored out a restructure settlement simply forward of coaching camp final summer season, and Stafford’s 2024 pay was elevated because of this.
The phrases of that association presently has him on monitor for less than a $4M roster bonus by way of locked in compensation (earlier than the beginning of the common season, that’s) for 2025. Stafford can be set to hold a cap hit of practically $50M subsequent season, and an extension or new re-working of his pact might assist decrease that determine. It will likely be fascinating to see if negotiations can progress on a faster timeline in comparison with final 12 months.
Whereas McVay is on the report with permitting Stafford to stay with the Rams as lengthy he needs to proceed his profession, the possibility of a trade was floated over the weekend. Transferring on from the veteran after June 1 would generate $27M in cap financial savings (together with nearly $23M in lifeless cash) for Los Angeles, however it might in fact create a serious emptiness on the QB spot.
No successor is presently in place with Jimmy Garoppolo set to hit free company and 2023 fourth-rounder Stetson Bennett but to play a daily season snap.
The Rams are comfy with continuing on a year-to-year foundation with Stafford, so his future will stay a speaking level so long as his profession lasts. For now, although, he’s on monitor to swimsuit up for 2025 because the crew goals to make one other playoff run subsequent season.