Matthew Stafford, the quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, who may be on the trading block this NFL offseason, reportedly seeks a higher salary as he approaches his 17th season. On “Good Morning Football,” NFL Network’s Peter Schrager mentioned that the relationship between Stafford and the Rams is “fine,” but the quarterback desires to be compensated among the top players in the league. “This is nothing personal between them,” Schrager stated regarding Stafford and the Rams. “This is a financial matter. Matthew Stafford wants to be paid what he believes he deserves, which is more than $50 million.”
Despite being under contract for two more seasons before hitting free agency, the Rams have allowed Stafford to explore contract discussions with other teams this offseason. Teams in need of a quarterback, such as the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and Pittsburgh Steelers, have reportedly reached out to Stafford. Schrager noted that these teams are prepared to offer Stafford more than what the Rams are willing to pay.
For the 2025 season, Stafford has a cap hit of $49.67 million, which will increase to $53.67 million in 2026. The Giants, who hold the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, are seen as a potential trade partner, although Schrager indicated they would not part with that pick for Stafford, but a second-round pick could be a possibility. The Steelers, who made the playoffs last season, might be interested in acquiring a quarterback with Super Bowl experience to enhance their chances of a playoff run, which they haven’t achieved since 2016.
The Browns currently have Deshaun Watson under contract, but his recent injury has left their quarterback situation uncertain heading into 2025. Meanwhile, the Raiders, now led by legendary coach Pete Carroll, are in a rebuilding phase and could benefit from Stafford’s veteran presence in the locker room. Despite the ongoing discussions, Schrager emphasized that the Rams and Stafford do not have a strained relationship, suggesting that a resolution could be reached.
If Stafford’s asking price starts at $50 million, only nine other quarterbacks in the NFL are set to earn that amount in 2025, with Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys leading the list at $60 million per season. The only other quarterback making over $50 million who also has a Super Bowl ring is Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, who won his first championship in Super Bowl LIX.
Additionally, the Rams have indicated that veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp, one of Stafford’s most reliable targets, is also on the trading block.
