The Los Angeles Rams remain firmly in the Super Bowl conversation this season, and much of that success can be credited to Matthew Stafford. Despite being 37 years old, Stafford has delivered elite performances and has even emerged as a leading candidate for NFL MVP honors.
Still, the organization cannot ignore the long-term reality at quarterback. Stafford has openly discussed retirement in the past, and if the Rams finish the season with a championship, the possibility of him walking away becomes even more realistic.
Should that scenario unfold, Los Angeles would be forced to identify a new quarterback quickly, especially with a roster designed to compete immediately. One unexpected solution has been suggested by Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport, who proposed a potential trade involving Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
In Davenport’s hypothetical deal, the Rams would acquire Tagovailoa along with a sixth-round pick, while sending Miami a fourth-round selection in 2027. The Dolphins would also absorb part of Tagovailoa’s remaining salary, which spans three more years on the four-year, $212 million contract extension he signed in 2024.
Davenport argued that Los Angeles has enough financial flexibility to handle Tagovailoa’s deal for at least one season, especially if Miami assists with the cap burden. He also suggested that joining Sean McVay and a perennial contender might encourage Tagovailoa to restructure his contract to make it more team-friendly.
As justification for the move, Davenport pointed to Tagovailoa’s 2023 season, when he led the league in passing yards.
While that achievement is notable, it came with significant context. That season featured a healthy Tyreek Hill, and it remains the only year Tagovailoa has managed to play every game on the schedule.
Durability has been a persistent concern throughout Tagovailoa’s career, particularly with his history of concussions. Adding to those worries, the 27-year-old currently leads the league in interceptions this season, throwing 15 picks.
Given those factors, many observers believe Tagovailoa’s performance has regressed, and some continue to debate whether he was ever truly a long-term franchise quarterback.
The Rams will undoubtedly need a succession plan once Stafford’s tenure ends, but betting on Tagovailoa as that solution appears to be a risky and questionable gamble.
