Overview
- NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Rams and Matthew Stafford have made significant progress on a new deal, though no agreement is finalized.
- Stafford said during his Feb. 5 MVP speech that he will play in 2026, reinforcing talks after a 2025 season with 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns.
- He remains under contract through 2026 after prior revisions, and a true extension would likely add team control and help manage a $48.27 million 2026 cap hit.
- Los Angeles has leaned into a win-now plan with moves such as trading for Trent McDuffie and signing Jaylen Watson, increasing urgency to lock in its QB.
- Quarterback depth is in flux as free agent backup Jimmy Garoppolo is considering retirement, which could push the Rams to add another veteran or draft a prospect.