After the 2020 season, the Detroit Lions made a significant trade that changed the course of their future. Matthew Stafford, who had been the Lions’ starting quarterback for over a decade, requested to be traded to a team with better chances of winning. This led to Stafford being traded to the Los Angeles Rams. The trade has worked out for both teams, as the Rams won the Super Bowl in Stafford’s first year, and the Lions have become one of the top NFC teams with Jared Goff. However, while Goff is expected to stay in Detroit long-term, Stafford’s future with the Rams might be uncertain, especially with his wife, Kelly Stafford, hinting at the possibility of a trade once again.
On a recent episode of “The Morning After” podcast, Kelly Stafford discussed the situation, mentioning that while she and Matthew enjoy their life in Los Angeles, his future with the Rams could be in doubt. She expressed confusion about the trade of wide receiver Cooper Kupp, implying that it might impact Stafford’s decision, especially with his desire to win another championship.
“My husband wants to win, and he’s not trying to harm his team,” Kelly Stafford explained. “But the trade of Cooper is perplexing to me because we were one play away from the NFC Championship, and I truly believe we would have won it.”
She added that while she enjoys L.A., she is open to new experiences, suggesting she would be willing to leave if that’s what it takes. Stafford’s time with the Rams began with a Super Bowl victory, but recent years have been more challenging. He missed much of the 2022 season due to a neck injury but returned strong in 2023, throwing for 7,727 yards, 44 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions, guiding the Rams to two playoff appearances.
Stafford’s return to the Rams nearly didn’t happen this season due to contract negotiations. The Rams and Stafford settled on a deal worth $46.1 million for 2023, but with rumors circulating about Stafford seeking over $50 million, this could cause further complications.
Kelly Stafford also hinted at her willingness to leave Los Angeles if necessary, expressing that she wants Matthew to be treated with the respect he deserves. “I love L.A., but I also love the idea of new adventures,” she said.
If Stafford does get traded, it would further complicate the story of his exit from Detroit and create a sense of déjà vu for Lions fans who’ve seen this kind of situation before.
