The Los Angeles Rams have made it clear that they are committed to quarterback Matthew Stafford for at least another season. Head coach Sean McVay stated that the team was approached by other teams about Stafford during the offseason but unanimously agreed to keep him.
After the Rams’ first training camp practice at UC Irvine, McVay expressed his excitement about having a healthy Stafford on the field. He emphasized that there was a consistent and unanimous understanding among the team that they wanted Stafford to be their quarterback.
“We’re excited as hell about Matthew Stafford,” McVay said. “It’s been great to see him feeling good, and I’m certainly really glad he’s our quarterback.”
Stafford, who signed a four-year, $160 million extension with the Rams in 2022, confirmed that the team reached out to his agent regarding a possible restructuring or renegotiation of his contract. However, he preferred to keep the details of those conversations private.
“I don’t know what the technical term of it is,” Stafford said. “But we had conversations on that kind of stuff and I’ll leave it at that.”
The 35-year-old quarterback won a Super Bowl with the Rams in 2021 but missed the team’s final seven games last season due to a spinal cord contusion. The Rams struggled without key players like Stafford, wide receiver Cooper Kupp, and defensive tackle Aaron Donald, finishing with a 5-12 record.
However, all three players were present and participated in Wednesday’s practice. Stafford expressed his improved physical health compared to last year and his excitement to be back on the field.
“I feel a lot better,” Stafford said. “Physically, I feel really healthy compared to where I was at this point last year, so that’s fun for me. I was able to get the work in that I want to get in coming into this. And that makes it a whole lot more fun for me and just excited to be out here.”
Stafford also made it clear that he is happy playing for the Rams, under the leadership of Coach McVay, and for the team’s passionate fans.
“I just know that I’m really happy playing for this team, playing for this coach and these fans,” Stafford said.
The Rams’ decision to keep Stafford comes as no surprise, considering his talent and experience. Stafford has been a consistent performer throughout his career, throwing for over 45,000 yards and 282 touchdowns. His arm strength, accuracy, and ability to make quick decisions make him a valuable asset to any team.
With a healthy Stafford leading the offense, the Rams have high hopes for the upcoming season. They aim to bounce back from their disappointing record last year and compete for a playoff spot. The team’s success will heavily rely on Stafford’s ability to stay healthy and perform at a high level.
As the Rams gear up for the new season, they are confident in their decision to keep Stafford as their starting quarterback. McVay and the entire team are excited about the potential and leadership that Stafford brings to the field. With a strong supporting cast and a determined quarterback, the Rams are ready to make a statement in the NFL.