Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford intends to play in the 2025 season.
According to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Stafford has informed the Rams of his decision. However, whether he will remain with the team next season is still uncertain, largely due to a significant contractual factor.
Stafford Plans to Play, but Contract Talks Loom
“My understanding is Matthew Stafford does in fact plan to play next season,” Rapoport said on The Insiders on January 29. “This is essentially what he communicated to the Rams. He wanted to take some time off but ultimately told them, ‘I feel good. I don’t see why I wouldn’t play.’ Now, that’s not the whole story for the Rams.”
Stafford is set to earn $27 million in 2025, but that money is not guaranteed. Rapoport noted that it’s unlikely Stafford will play under his current contract. Last offseason, the Rams renegotiated his deal, securing a one-year, $40 million payout before training camp. Another contract adjustment may be necessary.
At 37, Stafford is still performing at a high level, boasting one of the strongest arms in the league. His commitment to playing is an encouraging sign for a Rams team that appears to be gaining momentum.
Rams Face Cap Considerations
Stafford’s contract restructuring last offseason removed guaranteed money for 2025. With the Rams projected to have $38.2 million in cap space, restructuring Stafford’s deal again could free up an additional $12.9 million.
Rapoport initially reported Stafford’s contract revision in July 2024, and any new agreement could provide the Rams with flexibility for their offseason plans.
Stafford Could Be the Most Sought-After QB if Made Available
If the Rams decide to move on from Stafford, he would likely attract significant interest across the league. The timing of any potential transaction would be crucial.
A pre-June 1 trade would result in a $45.3 million dead cap hit while saving the Rams $4.3 million. If they wait until after June 1, they would save $27 million with a $22.7 million dead cap charge.
NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal called Stafford “the biggest QB domino of the offseason,” adding that if he becomes available, he would be “the most attractive QB on the market.”
Releasing Stafford would be far less beneficial. Cutting him before June 1 would yield only $333,332 in savings with a $49.3 million dead cap hit. Waiting until after June 1 would improve the situation slightly, saving $23.7 million while incurring $26.7 million in dead money.
A trade would be the more logical route, allowing the Rams to gain assets rather than losing Stafford without compensation. Since his contract is not expiring, he would not qualify for the compensatory pick formula. This is a key consideration for Rams general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay.
Rams Pushed for a Swift Decision
After the season, Stafford left the possibility of retirement open but indicated he still had more football left in him. His wife, Kelly Stafford, echoed that sentiment, noting that he needed time to decide.
However, Snead emphasized the importance of moving quickly, recalling how Stafford’s initial trade request with the Lions accelerated the Rams’ planning process.
“I think Matthew probably disturbed our rejuvenation period,” Snead said on January 24. “We had just played in the Divisional Round, and a week later, news broke that he wanted to be traded. So we had to get back to work quicker than expected.”
McVay also stressed the need for a clear resolution.
“We don’t want to go through that again,” McVay said on January 23. “That’s not good for anybody. A decision sooner rather than later is ideal. Matthew and I have talked—he knows how important he is to me and this team. We had a great dialogue.”
As the offseason unfolds, the Rams will need to determine their next steps regarding Stafford’s future—whether that means renegotiating his contract, keeping him at his current salary, or exploring a trade.
