McVay: I'd like clarity from Stafford sooner rather than later
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay hopes Matthew Stafford makes a decision about his future soon.
"I think sooner than later, being able to get that clarity. Understanding clear, open, and honest communication," McVay said Thursday, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop. "I think there's a lot of love coming from our part. I think there's a lot of appreciation coming from his part as well. And I think a lot sooner than later is an ideal scenario."
Stafford said he would "take some time to think" following the Rams' playoff exit last Sunday, though he admitted he felt like had more in the tank.
The veteran quarterback, who turns 37 in February, is under contract through the 2026 season. His base salary for 2025 is $23 million and rises to $26 million in 2026, per Spotrac. That 2025 figure ranks eighth among signal-callers.
Stafford's status was also in limbo last offseason: He requested a revised deal in the spring, but he and the team couldn't reach an agreement until the first day of training camp.
McVay refused to speculate about whether Stafford would stay in Los Angeles if he returns for a 17th season, telling reporters the team and quarterback would discuss the latter's future at the "appropriate time."
L.A. acquired Stafford in a trade with the Detroit Lions ahead of the 2021 season, sending signal-caller Jared Goff the other way. Stafford signed a four-year, $160-million extension in March 2022 after leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory.
He threw for 3,762 yards with 20 touchdowns to eight interceptions in 2024.