HERMOSA BEACH — The Rams have had discussions with quarterback Matthew Stafford over contract concerns, head coach Sean McVay confirmed Friday.
NFL Network first reported Friday that Stafford was seeking more guaranteed money in his contract beyond the 2024 season.
Stafford, 36, signed a four-year, $160 million extension with the Rams in 2022 following their victory in Super Bowl LVI. But the veteran signal-caller opted for a team-friendly deal that has no guaranteed money for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
The 13-year veteran missed eight games in 2022 due to a series of injuries, including a spinal cord contusion. But Stafford looked like his old self in 2023, completing 62.6% of his passes for 3,965 yards, 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
After missing the Rams’ Week 9 loss to the Green Bay Packers due to a thumb injury, Stafford returned to lead the team to six wins in the next seven games to clinch a playoff spot playoffs. He threw 16 touchdowns and four interceptions during that span before sitting out Week 18 to rest before the playoffs.
“I had a good dialogue with Matthew,” McVay said. “There is nothing more important than making sure he feels appreciated and knows how much we love him and want him to lead the way.” I think this commitment that he wants to have can be reciprocal and we want to work to understand that.
McVay said Stafford participated in voluntary workouts this month, but did not guarantee Stafford would be present at OTAs in May.
“We’re definitely excited to have Matthew as our QB,” added general manager Les Snead.
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