Former Detroit Lions and current Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford could become a highly sought-after player if he enters trade discussions this offseason. Proven veteran quarterbacks with a Super Bowl victory and strong recent performances are rare, making Stafford an intriguing option for teams in need of an experienced leader.
Given his resume, it’s not surprising that some NFL insiders believe Stafford could leave the Rams for one final opportunity with a new team.
Analyst: Stafford Should Be ‘First Call’ for QB-Needy Teams
Former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky recently shared his thoughts on Stafford’s future and potential landing spots.
Speaking on NFL Live, Orlovsky named Stafford as the “first” quarterback he would target when addressing the Las Vegas Raiders’ need at the position.
He also identified the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers as ideal destinations for Stafford.
“The first call I would make would be to Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams to figure out what his plans are,” Orlovsky said on the January 28 edition of the show. “Is he going to play? Is he going to retire? Do the Rams want him back?”
Orlovsky then expanded his list of potential suitors, adding, “Honestly, if I were the Giants, if I were the Steelers, if I were a lot of teams, that would be my number one call. I’d want to understand Stafford’s plans.”
While the Steelers already have Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, making them a less likely option, both the Giants and Raiders are searching for stability at quarterback. Stafford’s experience and leadership could provide a significant boost to either franchise.
Stafford’s 2024-25 Season Performance
During the 2024-25 season, Stafford threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Under his leadership, the Rams secured the NFC West division title and won their Wild Card matchup against the Minnesota Vikings before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.
Retirement Speculation
Stafford, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft out of Georgia, spent 12 seasons with the Lions before being traded to the Rams in a blockbuster deal that sent Jared Goff to Detroit. He led Los Angeles to a Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in his first season with the team.
Now approaching his 37th birthday in February, Stafford is at an age where many quarterbacks consider retirement. However, he has yet to make any definitive statements about stepping away from the game.
Following the Rams’ playoff loss to the Eagles, Stafford told reporters he would “take some time to think about” retirement but also noted, “I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball,” suggesting he may not be ready to walk away.
When asked if he still has more football left in him, Stafford confidently responded, “Sure feels like it.”
Despite signing a restructured contract with the Rams last summer, Stafford carries a cap hit of $49.66 million, leaving his future in Los Angeles uncertain.
