Los Angeles Rams' latest decision with Matthew Stafford trade permission is not what some might think it is
According to reports from NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, the Los Angeles Rams have given permission for quarterback Matthew Stafford’s agent to speak with other teams about his value. It is important to note that this is not a trade request. The purpose of this is for the Rams and Stafford to better understand his […]
According to reports from NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, the Los Angeles Rams have given permission for quarterback Matthew Stafford’s agent to speak with other teams about his value. It is important to note that this is not a trade request.
The purpose of this is for the Rams and Stafford to better understand his value outside the team, helping to structure his next contract. Stafford has two years remaining on the four-year, $160 million extension that he signed back in 2022.
Despite the Rams stating that this is not a trade request by Stafford, it's very possible that is what it leads to. Whispers of Stafford potentially being interested in a change of scenery began when Los Angeles told star wide receiver Cooper Kupp that it plans on trading him during the offseason.
There's a chance that some other teams value Stafford much more than the Rams do, leading to an eventual trade. For example, a team such as the Tennessee Titans feel as though they are just a QB away from being a legitimate contender, and could drive the price up to entice the L.A. to deal him.
If Stafford believes he can get a better contract from another team, which will likely be the final one of his career, he could demand a trade. He may also not be on board with the Rams' future plans, such as dealing one of his top weapons in Kupp. This situation could become a dangerous one for L.A.
At 37-years-old, Stafford is still very productive. In 2024 he threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and a 65.8 completion percentage during 16 starts. He is as experienced and intelligent as they come, and is still plenty capable of leading a team to a Super Bowl. Hopefully the Rams have a contingency plan if things fall apart between them and Stafford, as they have a very talented and young roster.
Rams reportedly have an asking price in mind to trade Matthew Stafford if they are not able to reach a new contract
Quarterback has two years left on his contract
