On February 21, 2025, the Los Angeles Rams took a notable step by allowing Matthew Stafford’s agent to discuss potential contract terms with other NFL teams, as reported by NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero. This decision does not guarantee a trade but indicates the Rams are open to evaluating their options amid ongoing contract negotiations with the 37-year-old quarterback. Stafford, a Super Bowl champion and cornerstone of the franchise since 2021, remains a high-value asset, and this development has sparked speculation about his future. Here’s an in-depth look at the situation, including potential trade partners who might pursue the veteran signal-caller.
Background: A Championship Legacy and Contract Talks
Stafford arrived in Los Angeles in 2021 via a trade from the Detroit Lions, quickly proving his worth by leading the Rams to a Super Bowl title in his debut season with 4,886 yards and 41 touchdowns. Over four years, he has guided the team to three playoff appearances, including a 2024 campaign where he threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions despite early injuries. The Rams won the NFC West and defeated the Minnesota Vikings in the wild-card round before losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional playoffs.
His current four-year, $160 million contract, signed in 2022, extends through 2026 but was adjusted last offseason to front-load guarantees into 2024—$12.5 million in a signing bonus and $23.5 million fully guaranteed—leaving only a $4 million roster bonus guaranteed for 2025. With cap hits of $49.7 million in 2025 and $53.7 million in 2026, Stafford’s camp seeks more security, while the Rams weigh their financial flexibility. Contract tensions delayed training camp preparations in 2024, and now, with the season over, both sides face a critical juncture.
The Permission to Seek Trade Value: What It Means
Pelissero noted that the Rams have not placed Stafford on the trade block, nor has he formally requested a trade. Instead, this move allows agent Jimmy Sexton to assess Stafford’s market value by exploring contract extensions with other teams in a trade scenario. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network emphasized that the goal remains a new deal with the Rams, stating, “They can gain a better understanding of his value outside the team, potentially making it easier to get a contract done.” This approach uses the market as leverage for both parties—the Rams to set a retention price and Stafford to secure guarantees. Announced just before the NFL Scouting Combine, this step underscores the urgency as the March 19 roster bonus deadline looms.
Why Now? Contract and Roster Considerations
At 37, Stafford’s durability is a concern despite his strong 2024 performance. Elbow and back injuries have plagued him, yet his adjusted QBR of 64.7 (12th in the NFL) and 235.1 passing yards per game affirm his elite status. The Rams, however, must balance his $49.7 million 2025 cap hit against a roster featuring emerging stars like Puka Nacua and Kamren Kinchens. With only $4 million guaranteed next year, they could renegotiate or move on if terms don’t align.
The lack of a quarterback successor complicates matters. Jimmy Garoppolo, a free agent in March 2025 after a solid Week 18 outing (334 yards, two touchdowns), isn’t a long-term answer at 33. Stetson Bennett, a 2023 fourth-rounder, has underperformed. Trading Stafford without a plan could hinder the team’s immediate competitiveness, making a substantial return essential.
Potential Trade Partners
If the Rams and Stafford fail to agree on a new contract, several teams could emerge as suitors, each with unique motivations and assets. Here are five potential trade partners based on current needs and roster fit:
- Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers finished 2024 with a playoff-caliber defense and a strong run game but cycled through Russell Wilson and Justin Fields at quarterback, both free agents in 2025. Sitting at the 21st pick in the draft, they’re out of range for top prospects. Stafford’s experience could elevate their offense, and their $40 million in cap space accommodates his contract. A trade might involve a 2025 second-round pick and a conditional 2026 pick. - New York Giants
The Giants, with the No. 3 overall pick, face pressure to improve after a dismal 2024. General manager Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll need wins, and Stafford could pair with receiver Malik Nabers to boost a struggling offense. They’re unlikely to part with their first-rounder, but two second-round picks (2025 and 2026) could appeal to the Rams, allowing New York to draft a future quarterback later. - Minnesota Vikings
With a 14-win season in 2024 under Kevin O’Connell—Stafford’s 2021 offensive coordinator—the Vikings are close to contention. Sam Darnold’s late-season fade and J.J. McCarthy’s development timeline make Stafford a fit. Their No. 24 pick in 2025 could be the centerpiece of a straightforward deal, giving the Rams draft capital to address other needs. - Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders, under new coach Pete Carroll, lack a franchise quarterback and boast over $90 million in cap space. Stafford could anchor an offense with tight end Brock Bowers and receiver Jakobi Meyers, accelerating a rebuild. They might offer a 2025 first-round pick (No. 7), though Carroll’s long-term vision could favor a younger option. - Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have a solid roster—decent offensive line, weapons like Jonathan Taylor—but Anthony Richardson’s inconsistency in 2024 raises questions. Stafford could maximize Shane Steichen’s offense in a dome, offering a two-year window. A trade might include a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 third-rounder, balancing immediate impact with Richardson’s growth.
Trade Value and Precedents
Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reports the Rams would seek at least a first-round pick, reflecting Stafford’s 2024 performance and postseason pedigree. The 2023 Aaron Rodgers trade—where the Packers received a first-round swap, a second-round pick, and more from the Jets for the then-39-year-old—sets a benchmark. Stafford, younger and fresher off a playoff run, could fetch a late first-rounder or multiple Day 2 picks. The Rams might target picks to bolster their offensive line or replace Cooper Kupp, who’s also on the trade block per The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue.
The Rams’ Perspective: Commitment or Contingency?
The Rams have not wavered publicly in their intent to retain Stafford. McVay and Snead avoided long-term commitments in post-season pressers, but Schultz notes Stafford remains their top choice for 2025. His leadership in a near-NFC Championship run—14 yards shy—reinforces his value. Yet, allowing trade talks suggests a backup plan. A trade could yield assets for a youth-focused rebuild, with Garoppolo or a free agent like Sam Darnold as a bridge.
What’s Next?
The Rams and Stafford are set to meet during the NFL Combine (February 24-March 3, 2025) to negotiate. A new deal extending guarantees beyond 2025 while lowering his cap hit could end the trade chatter. If talks stall, offers from teams like the Steelers or Vikings could materialize. Kelly Stafford recently hinted at flexibility, saying on social media, “If someone doesn’t feel valued, then I’m, like, ‘Let’s hit the road,’” though she prefers staying in Los Angeles.
As of February 22, 2025, the situation is unresolved. The Rams and Stafford aim to stay together, but the permission to explore trades introduces real possibilities. For a team so close to a deeper playoff push, the outcome—retaining their quarterback or pivoting to a new era—will shape their 2025 trajectory. The NFL awaits the next move.
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[…] Matthew Stafford’s contract is the elephant in the room. The 37-year-old quarterback, entering his 17th NFL season, has a cap hit of $49 million in 2025, with only $4 million guaranteed. This hefty number eats up a significant chunk of the Rams’ cap, but it’s also a potential lever for creating more space. Extending Stafford could lower his 2025 cap hit by spreading his money over additional years, potentially saving $20 million or more this offseason. Alternatively, a post-June 1 cut (highly unlikely given his performance) would save $32 million but incur $18.5 million in dead money. Stafford’s late-2024 play—keeping the Rams competitive despite injuries—suggests an extension is the more probable route, locking in their franchise QB while freeing up cash. – Update: Rams have permitted Stafford to seek a trade. […]
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