SANTA CLARA — Decisions Ahead for the Rams
With general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay working on a multi-year contract, the Rams are now focusing on quarterback Matthew Stafford, who faces a significant choice.
Will he return for an 18th season in the NFL or decide to retire?
Is he going to commit for another year or request a new deal that bumps his 2026 salary, which currently sits at $42 million—fairly typical for an NFL quarterback—to something more in the range of $55 million to $60 million, reflecting his caliber?
Or might he choose to step away, embracing a life where he can spend more time with his wife, Kelly, and their four daughters?
Stafford’s decision, at 37, will heavily influence how Snead and McVay shape the offense this offseason.
“You’re looking at two very different teams with and without Matthew,” Snead pointed out on Wednesday.
As they approach free agency and the draft, Snead and McVay have contrasting viewpoints.
For them, balancing the present with future needs is essential. They need to plan for a team with Stafford while keeping in mind a Rams future without one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
Conversely, if Stafford chooses to retire, the team’s strategy for building the roster would have to shift dramatically. It wouldn’t entail a complete overhaul, but it would certainly raise a host of questions.
Should they trade for an experienced quarterback or aggressively draft someone with the potential to step in as Stafford’s successor?
“When Matthew is at the top of his game, we harness that energy. We want to make the most of it,” Snead explained, while acknowledging the eventual need for a transition.
As they seek answers and prepare for necessary changes, Snead and McVay value patience in this process. They plan to support Stafford as he navigates his decision.
“We’re going to give him the space he needs,” Snead said. “If he’s feeling energized and wants to keep playing, then we’re here to support that.”
Stafford has a knack for creating memorable moments, even after a season many believed might bring him an MVP award.
“If he’s inclined to keep playing, I’d wholeheartedly support that,” McVay shared. “It’s encouraging to see him taking the time to discuss things with Kelly and the girls.” His performance remains impressive.
While McVay has clear preferences, he respects Stafford’s need to reflect on what’s best for him and his family—no matter how long it takes.
“He deserves all the time he needs,” McVay said. “We’re spending quality time together, with no pressing timelines. He’s aware of his desire to play.”
Ultimately, regardless of Stafford’s choices this offseason, Snead recognizes the inevitability of adjusting to life without their star quarterback. They aim to optimize their time with him while preparing for the future.
“In the end, we keep it straightforward,” Snead concluded. “Let’s maximize our time with Matthew, and when he feels ready to step away, we’ll be prepared to move forward.”
