The Los Angeles Rams are riding high into the postseason, finishing the regular season on a 9-3 tear to clinch a playoff berth. Yet, while the Rams’ late-season surge is impressive, questions loom about the future of quarterback Matthew Stafford and whether this playoff run could mark his swan song in Los Angeles.
Stafford’s Declining Production
Stafford, now 36 years old, is no longer the same quarterback who led the Rams to Super Bowl glory just three seasons ago. His 2024 campaign was marked by inconsistency, particularly down the stretch. Over his final three starts, Stafford struggled to generate offense, with the Rams failing to surpass 20 points in each game.
In fact, the offense seemed to hum more effectively with backup Jimmy Garoppolo under center in Week 18. Garoppolo led Los Angeles to a 25-point outing against the Seahawks, sparking whispers about whether Stafford is still the Rams’ best option moving forward.
Stafford’s Contract and Future
Stafford is under contract through 2026, but the Rams have shown a willingness to make bold moves before. Whether it’s trading Jared Goff for Stafford in 2021 or letting go of beloved veterans, the Rams’ front office prioritizes winning now.
While Stafford’s playoff experience and leadership are valuable, his physical limitations and inconsistent play may push Los Angeles to explore younger, more dynamic options at quarterback. Stafford himself may also contemplate retirement, given his age, extensive injury history, and the wear and tear of 16 NFL seasons.
The Case for a New Direction
The Rams boast a promising young core led by Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Blake Corum, making this an ideal time to think about the future at quarterback. With Stafford in decline, Los Angeles might explore drafting a successor or trading for a young signal-caller like Michigan standout J.J. McCarthy. Developing a quarterback who can grow with the Rams’ nucleus could extend the team’s competitive window.
Even head coach Sean McVay has hinted at the importance of sustaining success long-term, suggesting the Rams could invest in a developmental quarterback while Stafford is still under contract.
One Last Hurrah?
Stafford has achieved remarkable things in Los Angeles, most notably leading the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI victory in 2021. However, as the Rams prepare to face the Vikings in the Wild Card round, Stafford’s struggles and the team’s future aspirations cast uncertainty on his role beyond this postseason.
The playoffs could provide Stafford with a golden opportunity to silence critics and remind everyone of his championship-caliber talent. But even if he delivers another magical run, the Rams must weigh whether Stafford’s leadership outweighs the need for a younger, more dynamic option under center.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for the Rams
Matthew Stafford’s time with the Rams has been memorable, but the writing is on the wall. Whether through retirement or a transition to a successor, Stafford’s tenure as the Rams’ quarterback is nearing its end.
For now, Rams fans can only hope their veteran quarterback has one last playoff masterpiece left in him. Whatever happens, Stafford’s legacy in Los Angeles is secure—but his future is anything but.
