Stafford on the Move? Rams Face Multiple Tough Decisions Entering Offseason

It’s going to be a dramatic offseason for the Los Angeles Rams, who came just one touchdown shy of defeating the now Super Bowl champion Eagles this postseason. LA has been in the spotlight for major trades recently, including the Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic in what many consider the most shocking trade in NBA history. That said, their LA counterpart, the Rams, have also made waves with their decision to move on from former Triple Crown winner Cooper Kupp.

Recently, speculation has grown regarding QB Matt Stafford, who is seeking a new contract that the Rams are rumored to be hesitant to offer. If Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams want to continue their partnership, they’ll need to sort out their financial matters sooner rather than later. Stafford reportedly wants a raise after restructuring his contract last offseason to move more guaranteed money into 2024, but the Rams seem reluctant to meet his demands. This decision will prove critical, as it could shape the future trajectory of the franchise.

It seems that both Stafford and the Rams are open to maintaining their bond through the 2025 season; yet, the situation ultimately hinges on financial negotiations. Stafford has established a clear figure that represents his worth, while the Rams, with their constraints and considerations, have their own number in mind. The hope is that both parties can navigate this discord and find a middle ground that satisfies both sides, fostering a continued collaboration that benefits both the team and Stafford’s career.

Even though discussions are currently at a standstill, there is still plenty of time for a resolution. Stafford has a $4 million roster bonus due on the third day of the new league year in March, which adds a sense of urgency to the situation. However, the Rams don’t necessarily need to finalize their decision before that deadline. They retain the option of trading him after the bonus is paid, although it would be financially and strategically beneficial if they could make a move before that payout. While it’s still early in the offseason, the sooner they address this contract situation, the sooner Los Angeles can solidify its plans for the upcoming season and beyond.

The New York Giants have been heavily linked to Stafford and are in the market for a veteran quarterback—this sentiment resonates not only among insiders in league circles but also with anyone who follows the team and understands their situation at that position. As speculation gains traction regarding the Rams' willingness to part ways with Matthew Stafford, it paints a picture of a Giants team that some might consider desperate, especially given the grace period afforded to General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll. Within this context, there is a prevailing belief that the Rams are in a commanding position regarding Stafford’s eventual trade, able to assertively demand a first-round pick as part of any compensation package for his contract.

However, this price tag seems rather steep for the Giants, who may hesitate to part with such a valuable asset for a 37-year-old quarterback with considerable wear and tear. The implications of such a move would reverberate throughout the franchise, as players like rookie WR Malik Nabers have already voiced their support for the idea on Twitter/X. A move of this magnitude would signal a shift in New York's process from rebuilding to trying to win right away—a move I’m not sure their supporting cast is capable of making.

For now, this remains pure speculation. I find it hard to imagine LA moving on from a quarterback who just led them deep into the playoffs, but as we all know, anything is possible in the NFL.