In the immediate aftermath of the Rams’ divisional round loss, Matthew Stafford was asked about his intentions moving forward. He did not confirm he will play in 2025, although his evaluation of his performance suggested the Super Bowl winner feels he can still provide high-end play at this stage of his career. 
Stafford is on the books for the next two seasons, but over that span his only guaranteed compensation currently scheduled comes from roster bonuses totaling $9MM. Last offseason, team and player worked out a restructure which enhanced his 2024 earnings but confirmed that a year-to-year approach would be in place. A quicker resolution this time around is being targeted.
“We don’t want to have that go on again,” head coach Sean McVay said in reference to last summer’s contract talks (via ESPN’s Sarah Barshop). “I think sooner than later, being able to get that clarity. Understanding clear, open and honest communication. I think there’s a lot of love coming from our part. I think there’s a lot of appreciation coming from his part as well. And I think a lot sooner than later is an ideal scenario.”
Stafford – who played through four cracked ribs during the latter part of the regular season through the playoffs – will be 37 by the start of the 2025 campaign. The former No. 1 pick posted a 93.7 passer rating this past season, roughly in line with his four-year average with the Rams. He would be expected to remain a dependable starter if healthy moving forward, but if retirement becomes a serious consideration the Rams will of course need to make moves at the quarterback position.
Even if Stafford decides to remain in place for next year (something McVay would be on board with), Los Angeles’ lack of a clear successor under center is a notable issue. Veteran Jimmy Garoppolo is a pending free agent, and a departure on his part this spring would create the need for at least a new high-floor QB2 in 2025. Former fourth-rounder Stetson Bennett remains attached to his rookie contract, but he has yet to play a snap in the regular season.
Given the list of quarterbacks set to be on the market (via free agency or trade) and the fact the Rams are slated to pick 26th in April’s draft, an obvious replacement for Stafford does not exist at this point. One still may not be needed for 2025, but the team will not be able to pivot to other offseason priorities until his future becomes certain.