Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and the team have come to a resolution regarding his contract concerns, with Stafford reporting to training camp as confirmed by head coach Sean McVay on Tuesday. McVay revealed that the delay in meeting with the media was due to focusing on Stafford’s contract situation, which involved an increase in guaranteed money for the final two years of his current deal, set to expire at the end of the 2025 season. Prior to the contract adjustment, Stafford, 36, had $15 million in guarantees left on the four-year, $160 million contract he signed in 2022.
McVay expressed gratitude for the constructive dialogue that took place and the ultimate solution that was reached, highlighting the importance of finding a balance that benefits both the team and acknowledges Stafford’s value. The negotiations were extensive, involving key figures such as vice president Tony Pastoors, general manager Les Snead, executive Kevin Demoff, and Stafford’s agent, Jimmy Sexton.
The focus of the discussions was to prevent the possibility of Stafford holding out during training camp, particularly due to his concerns surrounding guaranteed money in his contract for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. McVay emphasized the importance of reaching a resolution to ensure the team could focus on football and Stafford could lead the way towards future success.
Stafford, who led the Rams to victory in Super Bowl LVI at the end of the 2021 season, has faced injury setbacks in recent years but delivered a strong performance last year with 3,965 passing yards and 24 touchdown passes in 15 games. The deal reached with Stafford is not an extension of his contract, but a modification that addresses his concerns and enables the team to move forward positively. –Field Level Media
