Could the Rams’ Matthew Stafford be on his way out of L.A.?
The Latest Development
According to reports from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, the Los Angeles Rams have given quarterback Matthew Stafford’s agent permission to speak to other teams.
The Context
Stafford, 37, was traded to the Rams in 2021 in exchange for Jared Goff and several draft picks. A month after winning the Super Bowl with the Rams in February 2022, he signed a 4-year, $160 million contract extension.
However, the Rams can save $27 million in salary cap space by trading him after June 1. The current discussions are likely for Stafford to see if he could get one last significant payday from another squad, or if it would be in his best interest to restructure his deal with the Rams once again.
The Possibility of a Trade
If the situation deteriorates, the potential is there for the Rams to ship Stafford off to finish his career elsewhere. A few weeks before the start of NFL free agency and more than two months before the NFL Draft, the only other QBs on the Rams roster are Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett — and the latter of which has never appeared in a regular season game.
A potential trade would likely result in L.A. bringing in a new quarterback through free agency or the draft. Options on the market include Sam Darnold, who resurrected his career with the Minnesota Vikings last season, or 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers.
The Impact on the Team
The news comes after the Rams told wide receiver Cooper Kupp that they are shopping him to other teams this offseason. Kupp has been a terrific pairing with Stafford over the last four seasons, and was named Super Bowl MVP in 2022.
Conclusion
The situation remains uncertain, but it’s clear that the Rams are exploring their options. Time will tell if Matthew Stafford will remain in L.A. or if he’ll be on his way out of town.
FAQs
* What is the reason for the Rams’ decision to give Matthew Stafford’s agent permission to speak to other teams?
+ The Rams want to see if Stafford can get one last significant payday from another squad or if it would be in his best interest to restructure his deal with the Rams once again.
* What are the potential trade implications for the Rams?
+ A potential trade would likely result in L.A. bringing in a new quarterback through free agency or the draft.
* What are some potential quarterback options for the Rams to consider in free agency or the draft?
+ Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers, and others are potential options.
