The Los Angeles Rams fan base might be anxiously ready as QB Matthew Stafford takes a while away to ponder his future and attainable retirement; Nevertheless, if he does need to play in 2025, it could be mutually helpful to each him and the group to run it again once more subsequent season.
Stafford could not have had a stat heavy season with LA in 2024, however total the veteran quarterback nonetheless had a really strong yr with just below 4,000 yards passing, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He additionally had two video games with 4 passing touchdowns and helped carry the Rams inside 20 yards of being within the NFC championship for his second time in simply 4 years with the group.
The Rams have Stafford underneath contract for the subsequent two seasons, however rumors of him being traded on the deadline this yr when LA was struggling to a 1-4 document early of their 2024 marketing campaign have quietly stored going. This has left many to query how Los Angeles will deal with their QB scenario within the offseason.
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When Stafford was requested about his future after the sport, the veteran QB didn’t decide to something immediately however definitely appeared like he was implying he could have extra within the tank. “I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball,” mentioned Stafford. Because the interview continued, he was requested whether or not he has soccer left in him, to which he replied, “Sure feels like it.”
WR Puka Nacua made it clear the place he stands by way of his quarterback, saying:
“Everybody in this locker room, we believe in [Stafford] with every inch of our being,” broad receiver Puka Nacua mentioned. “It’s a great feeling going out there and knowing that your quarterback is willing to put it all on the line and he’s capable of making plays anytime it’s asked of him. We have all trust in No. 9.”
Certain, it’s clear that it’s time to no less than think about what’s subsequent past Stafford, who turns 37 in February, however with no actual top-tier quarterbacks obtainable in free company, and an absence of outstanding prospects on the QB place within the collegiate draft this yr, it appears it could be finest for each the group and participant if the 2 had been in a position to keep collectively for 2025.
Stafford will in the end have the ultimate say if he even needs to return subsequent season or retire, but when he returns, I doubt he would need to begin over and transfer his household once more. As for the Rams aspect of issues, the group could have a decide too late within the first spherical of the draft to take any of the highest quarterbacks with out making a significant commerce.
Their are some choices at quarterback for Los Angeles, however on paper none of them really feel like an improve over Stafford. The Vikings Sam Darnold might be the most effective obtainable free agent, however after LA’s 9 sack effort that noticed Darnold battle mightily in opposition to their protection, I doubt the Rams are racing to shell out a ton of money to signal him over retaining what they’ve.
Another choice can be somebody like Aaron Rodgers who isn’t anticipated to return to the Jets subsequent season. Nevertheless, this looks as if a lateral transfer at finest, and realistically might be extra of a downgrade from Stafford, as Rodgers is 5 years older and regarded like a shell of his former self in his first yr again from his Achilles tear final yr. The one manner I see somebody like Rodgers in Los Angeles subsequent season is within the scenario that Stafford throws a wrench within the plans and decides to retire.
Stafford has come up clutch in so many moments throughout his time in LA, what he brings to a group is greater than what could be quantified in stats. He’s a pacesetter that galvanizes a locker room, and his teammates need to win for him. Los Angeles could begin peeking into what lies after Stafford’s gone, however for 2025, I believe there is no such thing as a higher scenario for each the Rams and Stafford than a reunion.
