Image source: David Jensen, Getty Images
Retirement talk? Not so fast. Matthew Stafford made one thing clear this week: he still loves football and isn’t ready to walk away anytime soon. Just days after agreeing to a revised one-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Rams, the veteran quarterback sounded energized, motivated, and fully focused on another run in Los Angeles.
At 38, Stafford may be deep into his NFL career, but he’s playing like someone with unfinished business—and the Rams seem more than happy to keep handing him the keys.
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Stafford Still Loving Life—and Football—in Los Angeles
After signing a deal that keeps him tied to the Rams through 2027, Stafford spoke openly about where his head is right now. The answer? Right in the middle of football season prep—and enjoying every bit of it.
Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Stafford said he feels great in Los Angeles and hopes there’s still more football ahead. The Super Bowl-winning quarterback admitted retirement is something he has to manage carefully, but he isn’t rushing toward that finish line.
And honestly, why would he? The Rams remain competitive, the California weather is tough to complain about, and Stafford looks as locked in as ever. For a quarterback entering his late 30s, he sounds more like a guy planning his next playoff push than someone browsing retirement brochures.
Rams Keep the Door Open With Flexible Contract
According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, Stafford’s revised contract was built around flexibility.
Instead of a long-term guaranteed commitment, the deal includes rolling guarantee triggers after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. That gives both Stafford and Los Angeles the freedom to evaluate things one year at a time.
Financially, Stafford remains among the NFL’s top-paid quarterbacks. He’s set to earn $40 million in 2026, with a guaranteed roster bonus in 2027. If he remains on the roster into the 2027 league year, even more salary protections kick in.
It’s a practical setup for both sides. The Rams stay flexible. Stafford stays happy. Everybody wins—and fans get to avoid panic-refreshing retirement headlines for now.
Sean McVay Has His Starter—But Ty Simpson Is Learning Fast
Head coach Sean McVay has made it clear: as long as Stafford wants to play, it’s his offense.
That doesn’t mean the Rams aren’t planning ahead. Rookie quarterback Ty Simpson is viewed as a potential future option, but the team appears content letting him develop behind a proven veteran.
And Stafford isn’t treating mentorship like homework either.
He praised Simpson and revealed he had been a fan of the former Alabama quarterback before the draft. Now that they’re teammates, Stafford has embraced helping the rookie in meetings and on the practice field.
That kind of leadership matters. NFL quarterback rooms can feel like graduate school with shoulder pads, and Stafford seems fully committed to helping Simpson grow while still chasing wins himself.
Los Angeles Continues to Feel Like Home
The move to Los Angeles has been a major turning point in Stafford’s career.
In five seasons with the Rams, he has played 74 games, thrown for more than 19,000 yards, and delivered 141 touchdown passes. He also helped bring a Super Bowl title to the franchise—something that changed his legacy in a big way.
Off the field, LA has become home for the Stafford family too. His wife, Kelly Stafford, previously shared how much they enjoy the city and how connected they feel to the community.
Safe to say, Southern California has treated Stafford pretty well. A quarterback, sunshine, playoff football—it’s a combination Rams fans aren’t complaining about.
For now, Matthew Stafford’s retirement plans remain simple: keep playing, keep competing, and keep leading the Rams.
Los Angeles has its starter. Ty Simpson has a mentor. And Stafford still looks eager for what’s next.
The eventual passing of the torch will come one day. But not today.
For now, Rams fans can relax—at least until the next dramatic offseason rumor decides to appear like a surprise blitz.
FAQ:
Is Matthew Stafford retiring from the NFL soon?
No, Matthew Stafford has made it clear that retirement is not an immediate plan. After signing his latest contract extension with the Rams, the veteran quarterback said he still loves playing and is excited for the upcoming NFL season.
How long is Matthew Stafford under contract with the Rams?
Stafford’s revised deal keeps him connected with Los Angeles through the 2027 season. The contract includes flexible year-to-year guarantees that allow both sides to reassess in future seasons.
What did Matthew Stafford say about retirement?
Stafford recently shared that he is taking his career one season at a time. While he knows retirement will eventually come, he said he still enjoys football and is fully focused on helping the Rams compete.
How much is Matthew Stafford’s new Rams contract worth?
Stafford is expected to earn $40 million in 2026, along with additional roster bonuses and future guarantee triggers built into the agreement.
Who could replace Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles?
Rookie quarterback Ty Simpson is viewed as a possible future option. However, the Rams remain committed to Stafford as their starting quarterback for now.
Is Matthew Stafford helping Ty Simpson develop?
Yes. Stafford said he has embraced mentoring Simpson by working with him in meetings and on the practice field while sharing his NFL experience.
What has Matthew Stafford accomplished with the Rams?
Since joining Los Angeles, Stafford has helped lead the Rams to a Super Bowl title while throwing for over 19,000 yards and more than 140 touchdowns.
What does Stafford’s return mean for the Rams in 2026?
Keeping Stafford gives the Rams stability at quarterback and strengthens their playoff hopes heading into the 2026 NFL season.
Has Sean McVay commented on Matthew Stafford’s future?
Sean McVay has consistently backed Stafford as the team’s leader and starting quarterback for as long as he wants to keep playing.
Why are Rams fans excited about Matthew Stafford staying?
Stafford brings experience, leadership, and proven playoff success. For Rams fans, having him back means the team remains firmly in the NFC conversation—and probably saves a few heart rates on Sundays too.
Also Read: Can Arch Manning Lead Texas After Huge $47M Roster Investment?
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Is Matthew Stafford Planning One More Super Bowl Run With the Rams?