Former Detroit Lions and current Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford addressed questions about retirement after the Rams’ loss to the Eagles.
Stafford and the Rams fell short of a Super Bowl run this season, losing to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, January 19, in a 28-22 game. With the Rams’ season now over, Stafford, a veteran quarterback, faced inquiries about his future in football.
At 36 years old, Stafford will turn 37 on February 7. While he is nearing the latter part of his NFL career, players like Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady have shown longevity is possible. After the game, Stafford spoke about his future in the league.
Matthew Stafford’s Take on His NFL Future
Immediately following the game, reporters questioned Stafford about retirement. Despite the timing, Stafford seemed caught off guard by the questions and glanced at his watch to note how recently the game had ended.
Stafford stated he would “take some time to think about it,” but he hinted at continuing his career, adding, “I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball.” When asked if he still has football left in him, Stafford replied, “Sure feels like it.”
It appears Stafford is open to another season, though he will take the offseason to reflect. Stafford still has two years remaining on his contract. When asked about Stafford’s future, Rams coach Sean McVay declined to comment, saying, “I’m not really interested in talking about anything as it relates to next year. Right now, I’m just appreciative of this team.”
Sean McVay ‘Shocked’ by Rams’ Loss
After the game, McVay expressed disbelief over the loss, saying, “I’m pretty shocked. We didn’t see it going any other way than us winning that game 29-28.”
Despite the defeat, Stafford had a strong performance, completing 26 of 44 passes for 324 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Though he fumbled twice, Stafford’s overall play under pressure was commendable. He now shares the Rams’ franchise record for most playoff touchdown passes (15) with Kurt Warner.
Late in the fourth quarter, Stafford and the Rams had a chance to score and take the lead but fell short. A false start, a sack, and an incomplete fourth-down pass ended their hopes of a comeback.
McVay reflected on the missed opportunity, saying, “We had every opportunity to win that game at the end there. And we’re a couple plays away from me being a lot happier right now.” He concluded, “I’m proud of this team and bummed that this journey is over.”
