Stafford in Major Trade Rumors: Former Lions' QB Matthew Stafford Linked to Bold Trade Move

Former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is at the center of significant trade speculation surrounding his current team, the Rams.

Stafford’s name has emerged frequently in discussions about potential moves as the November 5 NFL trade deadline approaches, with one intriguing scenario seeing the Rams’ quarterback stepping into a mentorship role for a younger, developing talent.

Benched QB Could Be Matthew Stafford’s Successor

The Carolina Panthers’ organization is clearly dissatisfied with the performance of Bryce Young, the benched former first-round draft pick. Young likely wants another shot at the field, and the Panthers appear ready for a change.

“Bryce Young has had one of the roughest starts for a rookie quarterback in NFL history, and if anyone can help him find his footing, it might be Sean McVay,” NFL analyst Dallas Robinson of Pro Football Network suggested in an October 29 article.

Robinson also notes that, while Stafford is still playing strong in 2024, he will turn 37 in February, making it essential for the Rams to find his eventual replacement.

“Young hasn’t lived up to his No. 1 overall pick status, but he’d theoretically have more time to develop behind Stafford in L.A.,” Robinson added.

Additionally, Robinson highlighted that Young’s contract could be a financial advantage for the Rams, who would only need to pay “backup quarterback money” since “Carolina would absorb Young’s prorated bonus earnings as dead money.” Under these conditions, the Rams could have Young through 2026 for about $11 million.

“Four undisclosed teams reportedly inquired about Young’s availability after his benching ahead of Week 3,” Robinson continued. “The Panthers have said they won’t trade Young, but teams in need of a potential franchise quarterback may still make enticing offers. With the Panthers likely to pursue a new QB in next year’s draft, a trade in the offseason appears likely if Young isn’t moved before the deadline.”

‘Young Could Benefit from a Change of Scenery’

In a November 1 feature, Ezekiel Trezevant of Sports Illustrated described a potential Rams-Panthers deal involving Young as a “shocking blockbuster trade.”

While calling the idea “shocking,” Trezevant endorsed the proposal.

“Young could benefit from a fresh start, and the Rams would gain a young quarterback who could learn from veteran Matthew Stafford before eventually taking the reins,” he explained. “Giving Young the opportunity to learn from Stafford could be a wise move for the Rams. It wouldn’t require a significant investment and might yield big rewards down the line.”

Trezevant further suggested that Young’s move to the Rams could give him access to development opportunities he lacked with the Panthers.

“Talented quarterbacks are rare in the NFL. Yet, the Panthers’ mismanagement could make Young an unexpected opportunity for another team,” he observed. “The Rams should absolutely explore what it would take to bring in Young, especially given their more stable situation compared to Carolina.”