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Matthew Stafford reportedly plans to play in 2025, but who he will suit up for next season is still in question.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that Stafford intends to play in 2025, though he noted that Stafford’s contract situation could lead to the Los Angeles Rams parting ways with him.
Ian Rapoport @RapSheet
From The Insiders in Mobile: #Rams QB Matthew Stafford plans to return and play in 2025, sources say, though a deal likely needs to be worked out. pic.twitter.com/ArzNDnWQsi
Last offseason, Stafford and the Rams revised his contract and he’ll now count for $49.6 million against the cap in 2025. Per Over The Cap, trading him after June 1 would save the Rams $27 million, while cutting him after June 1 would save Los Angeles $23 million.
Whatever the Rams decide to do, head coach Sean McVay is hoping the situation is resolved quickly.
“We don’t want to have that go on again,” McVay said, per ESPN’s Sarah Barshop. “I don’t think that’s good for anybody. I think sooner than later, being able to get that clarity. Understanding clear, open and honest communication.
“I think there’s a lot of love coming from our part. I think there’s a lot of appreciation coming from his part as well. And I think a lot sooner than later is an ideal scenario.”
Stafford, who will be 37 next month and just wrapped up his 16th NFL season, threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 2024. His best days are likely behind him, but he still is more than capable of being a starting quarterback on a playoff-caliber team.
When asked whether he had more football left in him after the Rams lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round, Stafford told reporters he “sure feels like it.”
Cutting or trading Stafford would be an understandable move by the Rams as they look to save money, but if they let the veteran walk it will likely only be a matter of time before another team picks him up.
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