Matthew Stafford is finally back, marking his first appearance in half a year.
His 2025 season has had an incredible turnaround—from flirting with retirement to now being a strong contender for the MVP award. It’s quite a story, really. I mean, it feels like it could be the plot of a Disney movie if everything goes his way.
Stafford isn’t alone in the MVP race; he’s locked in a duel with Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Plus, he’s aiming for his second Super Bowl ring as the Rams prepare to kick off the postseason against the Carolina Panthers this Saturday.
But it’s been a rocky road to get here. Just a few months ago, it was uncertain whether Stafford would even take the field this year.
The 37-year-old quarterback faced significant challenges, missing much of training camp due to a back injury sustained in the offseason. This followed a troubling spinal contusion that cut his previous season short, although it’s not clear if these issues are linked.
Stafford had remarked on the situation, expressing gratitude towards his team and head coach for their support, and emphasizing his commitment to doing right for the team. His words were, in a way, a window into his mindset.
Now, here we are, and you could argue that 2025—his 17th year in the league—has been his best yet. With 46 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 109.2, he’s reaching new heights. His eight interceptions? That ties his career low, and he’s accomplished all this after participating in about two-thirds of the season. He clocked in at 4,707 passing yards, with a QBR of 71.0—ranking high compared to his past seasons.
Leading the Rams to a 12-5 record, they secured the No. 5 seed in the NFC playoffs. But will that be enough to clinch the MVP for Stafford?
The discussions surrounding this topic are only just getting underway. With a month still remaining until the MVP winner is announced, expect plenty of heated debates. Analysts will definitely share their opinions, likely leading to some entertaining exchanges, albeit they might just fuel the rivalry among different fanbases.
On one side, there’s Stafford, whose place in the Hall of Fame is nearly guaranteed. The one accolade he’s missing? An MVP award. On the flip side, Maye has had a stellar rise, turning the Patriots around and knocking the Buffalo Bills off their division throne in just one season.
So, who’s your pick?
Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference. Do you favor quarterbacks who’ve faced tougher opponents or those who’ve had an easier path? Are touchdowns and passing yards more important to you than efficiency? Does the strength of the supporting cast matter? And perhaps, should sentimental value play a role, especially if this may be Stafford’s last shot at the award?
These are the questions voters will wrestle with. The debate will undeniably continue until the winner is revealed on February 5, just days before Super Bowl LX at the NFL Honors Ceremony in San Francisco.
