Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford could become a key trade target if he becomes available this offseason. Finding a veteran signal-caller with a Super Bowl ring and strong recent performances is rare, making Stafford an appealing option for teams in need of experience.
With that in mind, some NFL insiders believe Stafford could leave the Rams for one final opportunity with a new team.
NFL Analyst: Stafford Should Be ‘First Call’ for QB-Needy Teams
Former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky recently discussed Stafford’s potential future and possible landing spots.
Speaking on NFL Live, Orlovsky named Stafford as the top quarterback he would pursue to fill the Las Vegas Raiders’ vacancy.
He also identified the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers as potential destinations.
“The first call I would make would be to Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams to figure out his plans,” 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 on possible 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 need stability at quarterback. Stafford’s leadership and experience could be a valuable addition to either team.
Stafford’s 2024-25 Season with the Rams
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 title and won their Wild Card matchup against the Minnesota Vikings before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.
Retirement or Return? Stafford’s Next Move
Stafford, who was traded to the Rams in 2021 in a deal that sent Jared Goff to Detroit, won a Super Bowl with Los Angeles in his first season. Now, as he nears his 37th birthday in February, questions about his future have begun to surface.
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 step away just yet.
When asked if he still has more football left in him, Stafford confidently responded, “Sure feels like it.”
Despite signing a restructured contract last summer, Stafford carries a $49.66 million cap hit, leaving the Rams with a difficult decision regarding his future.
