By Sunday 
As the Rams’ season ends, Stafford reflects on his NFL journey and what lies ahead.
After a heartbreaking loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in a tight 28-22 game on January 19, Los Angeles Rams quarterback and former Detroit Lions star Matthew Stafford faces the end of another NFL season. With his 37th birthday approaching on February 7, questions about his future in football are swirling.
The seasoned quarterback, who’s had a remarkable career spanning over a decade, didn’t escape inquiries about retirement during the postgame press conference. His response, though measured, hinted that the competitive fire might still burn bright within him.
Stafford’s Thoughts on Retirement
When reporters broached the topic of retirement moments after the game, Stafford appeared taken aback by the timing. Gesturing to his watch, he remarked on how little time had passed since the final whistle. Still, he didn’t shy away from addressing the speculation.
“I’ll take some time to think about it,” Stafford stated, acknowledging the need for reflection during the offseason.
Despite this, his follow-up comments seemed to suggest that he isn’t quite ready to hang up his cleats just yet. “I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball,” he noted. When asked directly if he believed he still had football left in him, Stafford’s confident reply was, “Sure feels like it.”
With two years remaining on his contract, it appears Stafford’s decision isn’t imminent. However, the offseason will provide him with the time to assess his physical and mental readiness for the challenges ahead.
Rams Coach Sean McVay Weighs In
Rams head coach Sean McVay was less forthcoming about Stafford’s future with the team. When asked during the press conference about the quarterback’s plans, McVay kept his focus on the present.
“I’m not really interested in talking about anything as it relates to next year,” McVay said. “Right now, I’m just appreciative of this team.”
McVay, visibly frustrated by the outcome of the game, admitted he had high expectations for the matchup against the Eagles. “We didn’t see it going any other way than us winning that game 29-28,” he shared.
Stafford’s Performance and Legacy
Despite the disappointing end to the season, Stafford’s performance in the game was a testament to his enduring skill and resilience. He completed 26 of 44 passes for 324 yards, delivering two touchdowns and avoiding interceptions. Though he fumbled twice, his overall contribution under pressure remained significant.
In the playoff record books, Stafford continues to shine. He now boasts 15 passing touchdowns for the Rams, tying him with franchise legend Kurt Warner for the most in team history.
Still, the loss to the Eagles was a bitter pill to swallow. The Rams had a chance to seize the lead late in the fourth quarter but were thwarted by penalties, a sack, and an incomplete fourth-down pass. Reflecting on the missed opportunities, McVay expressed his frustration: “We had every opportunity to be able to win that game at the end there. And we’re a couple plays away from me being a lot happier right now.”
What’s Next for Matthew Stafford?
As Stafford heads into the offseason, the question of retirement looms large. While his comments suggest he’s far from ready to call it quits, the decision will ultimately come down to how he feels physically and mentally in the months ahead.
For now, Stafford remains a pivotal figure for the Rams, and his future could shape the trajectory of the team in the coming seasons. Whether or not 2025 will mark his final chapter in the NFL, one thing is clear—Matthew Stafford’s legacy as one of the league’s most determined and skilled quarterbacks is secure.