Matthew Stafford Eyes $50 Million Contract Ahead of Potential Rams Trade

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, a prominent figure in the NFL, may be gearing up for a busy offseason. Reports suggest that heading into what could be his 17th season, Stafford aims to secure a contract worth more than $50 million, placing him among the elite quarterbacks in the league.

Stafford’s Relationship with the Rams

On a recent episode of “Good Morning Football,” NFL Network analyst Peter Schrager provided insights into Stafford’s standing with the Rams. He emphasized that while the quarterback and the organization share a solid rapport, financial considerations are front and center.

Schrager stated, “This is nothing between them personally. This is a money issue. Matthew Stafford wants to be compensated fairly for his contributions and skills, and he believes he deserves more than $50 million.” This assertion underlines the significance of contractual negotiations as Stafford eyes a substantial pay raise.

Trade Talks and Contract Negotiations

Although Stafford remains under contract for two more seasons, the Rams have granted him permission to explore contract negotiations with other teams. This flexibility may reflect the organization’s willingness to engage in discussions about a potential trade.

Several teams in need of a quarterback, including the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and Pittsburgh Steelers, have reportedly reached out to Stafford. These franchises recognize his experience and ability to lead on the field.

Financial Implications for Stafford

For the 2025 season, Stafford carries a cap hit of $49.67 million, which is expected to increase to $53.67 million in 2026. Such financial figures signify the financial weight Stafford holds for the Rams and any potential trading team.

The Giants find themselves in an interesting position, holding the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. While they might avoid relinquishing that pick for Stafford, they could explore the idea of trading a second-round selection as part of a larger deal.

Playoff Aspirations and Team Dynamics

As teams like the Steelers aim to boost their playoff chances, they may be tempted to invest in a quarterback of Stafford’s caliber. Last season, Pittsburgh made the playoffs, although they cycled through quarterbacks such as Justin Fields and Russell Wilson during the campaign.

Moreover, the Browns face uncertainty surrounding quarterback Deshaun Watson, especially following his recent Achilles injury, further complicating their quarterback landscape ahead of 2025.

Stafford’s Competitive Standing

Should Stafford’s starting point of $50 million gain traction, only nine other quarterbacks in the NFL are projected to make that amount in 2025. The Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott leads the pack at $60 million per season, showcasing the competitive nature of quarterback salaries.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, fresh off his Super Bowl victory, joins Stafford as one of the few quarterbacks anticipated to earn over $50 million, adding to the competitive dynamics at play.

The Future for Both Stafford and Kupp

In addition to Stafford’s situation, the Rams have indicated that veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp could also be on the trading block. Kupp has long been one of Stafford’s most reliable targets, but indications suggest he may not attend training camp with the Rams if a favorable trade deal arises.

The Rams have a rising star in Puka Nacua, who quickly built rapport with Stafford over the past two seasons. However, with the uncertainty surrounding other receivers, such as unrestricted free agent Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell, who the Rams drafted in 2021, the team’s offensive strategy remains in flux.

What Lies Ahead for Stafford and the Rams

As the NFL offseason unfolds, both Stafford and the Rams find themselves at a crossroads. The potential for a significant contract negotiation and possible trade scenarios add layers of complexity to the situation. The next steps taken by the Rams and Stafford could shape the franchise’s future and impact the league’s quarterback landscape.

While tensions may not exist between Stafford and the Rams, the pressure of significant financial negotiations could lead to developments that may alter the team’s composition heading into the 2025 season. Fans and analysts alike remain keenly interested in the outcomes of these critical discussions.