Matthew Stafford's retirement plans appear clear after 2025 season with Rams
The Los Angeles Rams and quarterback Matthew Stafford agreed to a short-term arrangement last offseason, leaving questions about the veteran’s long-term future unresolved. But as Stafford approaches his 38th birthday in February, new reporting suggests retirement may not be imminent, regardless of how the 2025 season ends.
In a detailed feature published this week, Sports Illustrated writer Greg Bishop shed light on Stafford’s mindset and his ongoing understanding with the Rams.
Drake supports Shedeur Sanders in Browns’ latest video
“The handshake deal remains in place. Each year, Stafford and the Rams will do their own assessments. Never say never, but no one in his inner circle believes Stafford will retire after this season, even if he wins another championship and could retire… out on top”
That insight strongly suggests Stafford isn’t planning a John Elway-style exit anytime soon, even if the Rams make a deep postseason run or capture another Super Bowl.
Stafford says he’s still all In on football
Stafford’s name has been linked to retirement speculation before. During the 2022 season, he dealt with a spinal cord contusion that sidelined him for extended time, fueling concerns about his long-term health. More recently, a lingering back issue raised questions heading into this season.
Yet Stafford’s play has answered nearly all of them.
Entering Week 18, he leads the NFL with 42 touchdown passes and ranks second among qualified quarterbacks in passer rating (108.8) and passing yards (4,448), according to Pro Football Reference. He also sits fifth in adjusted QBR, reinforcing the idea that his physical decline-if any-has not arrived.
Stafford’s career is not winding down
“I don’t think [my career is] done, No. 1. And I’m still in it”
Those words align with what those close to him believe: that Stafford remains motivated, competitive, and physically capable of continuing beyond 2025.
The Rams, currently 11-5, can finish no higher than the NFC’s No. 5 seed entering the playoffs. Still, oddsmakers remain bullish on their title chances. As of Wednesday, DraftKings Sportsbook listed Los Angeles as the second favorite to win Super Bowl LX at +550 odds.
Ironically, Stafford was the early betting favorite for league MVP before a three-interception loss to the Atlanta Falcons. He now trails Drake Maye in MVP odds, but his overall season remains elite.
For now, the future appears simple: Stafford isn’t chasing a farewell tour. He’s chasing wins. And unless something dramatically changes, the Rams’ veteran signal-caller plans to keep playing well beyond the end of the 2025 season.