In a move that has both surprised and thrilled fans, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has announced his intention to continue playing in the 2025 NFL season. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty following the Rams’ recent playoff exit.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Stafford communicated to the Rams that he feels good and sees no reason not to play next season. This news is particularly significant given Stafford’s age—he will turn 37 on February 7—and the physical demands of the quarterback position. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/30/sports/matthew-stafford-plans-to-play-in-2025-but-still-has-to-work-out-deal-with-rams/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
However, Stafford’s return is contingent upon renegotiating his contract. He is due $27 million in 2025, none of which is guaranteed. The Rams are expected to rework his deal, a process that took longer than expected last season. Head coach Sean McVay has expressed a desire to resolve the contract situation more swiftly this time to avoid any delays in Stafford’s participation in training camp. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/30/sports/matthew-stafford-plans-to-play-in-2025-but-still-has-to-work-out-deal-with-rams/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Stafford’s performance in the 2024 season demonstrated that he still has plenty to offer. He threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 16 regular-season games. In the playoffs, he led the Rams to a wild-card victory over the Minnesota Vikings, throwing for 209 yards and two touchdowns, before a narrow loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round, where he amassed 324 passing yards and two touchdowns. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/30/sports/matthew-stafford-plans-to-play-in-2025-but-still-has-to-work-out-deal-with-rams/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
This announcement has significant implications for the Rams and their rivals. For the San Francisco 49ers, who might have anticipated a less challenging path in the NFC West had Stafford retired, his return means continued stiff competition within the division. ([heavy.com](https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/49ers-receiver-bad-news-following-rams-matthew-stafford-announcement?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
As Stafford prepares for his 17th NFL season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the veteran quarterback continues to perform and lead the Rams in their pursuit of another Super Bowl title.
– [nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/30/sports/matthew-stafford-plans-to-play-in-2025-but-still-has-to-work-out-deal-with-rams/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/24/sports/matthew-staffords-wife-kelly-reveals-retirement-thinking-as-rams-want-answers/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [the-sun.com](https://www.the-sun.com/sport/13418493/matthew-stafford-future-update-los-angeles-rams/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
