By Sunday 
Talk about a quarterback with staying power.
Former Detroit Lions star and current Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford is about to make history—not with a record-breaking touchdown pass, but with his bank account.
From First Overall to First Ever
It’s been a long journey since Stafford entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick in 2009. Back then, rookie contracts weren’t shackled by today’s limits, and Stafford cashed in immediately—$72 million over six years before even throwing a pro pass. That kind of start definitely helps when you’re chasing financial milestones.
Fast forward 15+ seasons, and Stafford is now on the cusp of becoming the first quarterback in NFL history to hit $400 million in career earnings.
Let that sink in.
A Tale of Two Teams (and a Lot of Zeroes)
Stafford spent 12 seasons in Detroit, putting up monster stats and carrying teams that often didn’t give him much to work with. But he still walked away with $219 million for his efforts in Honolulu blue.
Then came the blockbuster trade to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021—a move that sent Jared Goff to Detroit and brought Stafford a new team, a Super Bowl ring, and yes, even more millions. Since arriving in LA, he’s pocketed $145 million, with a juicy contract extension sealing the deal.
And now? A fully guaranteed $44 million for the 2025 season will officially push him past the $404 million mark.
Who’s Chasing Him?
Stafford isn’t alone in the high-roller quarterback club. Aaron Rodgers is close behind, and Patrick Mahomes is on a monster 10-year deal that could eventually hit $503 million. Even Kirk Cousins is sneaking into the club—quietly set to surpass $321 million by the end of 2025.
But Stafford’s combination of longevity, early-career contracts, and smart negotiation timing puts him in line to hit that $400M milestone first.
More Than the Money
Let’s not forget—this isn’t just about cash. Stafford was the face of a franchise in Detroit, endured more hits than most QBs would dream of, and ultimately lifted a Lombardi Trophy with the Rams. He’s earned this moment, and it’s more than just zeros on a paycheck—it’s a legacy sealed in both grit and green.
So whether you’re a Lions fan who still roots for him from afar or a Rams fan watching him make another run, one thing is clear:
Matthew Stafford has one of the most valuable arms in NFL history—literally.