Matthew Stafford contract update suggests Rams QB may play beyond 2026

Matthew Stafford arrived for the start of the Los Angeles Rams’ offseason program on Monday and with it came an update on his current contract situation. The Rams already confirmed recently that they’ve been in talks with Stafford about adjusting his current deal, but on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network shared the latest on that matter.

He says the two sides have made “significant progress” on a new contract, and it’s not just about giving him a raise after winning league MVP. It’s more about actually extending his deal, which currently runs through 2026.

“My understanding is that the two sides have made significant progress on a deal, not focused on giving him a raise this year, though that likely will come. It’s more on giving him an extension,” Rapoport said.

That’s a clear indication that Stafford wants to keep the door open for a return to the Rams in 2027, potentially putting off retirement for another year. And based on Sean McVay’s comments this offseason, the Rams will be happy to have him for as long as he wants to play.

Stafford just turned 38 in February and based on the way he’s played the last two years, there’s no reason to believe he can’t still play at a high level into his 40s. He’s set to make $40 million this year and while it’s reasonable to think he’ll get a raise, the fascinating part will be the length of his contract.

Will the Rams try to keep him signed through 2028, even if the last two years are player options? It sounds like he’ll be on the books for at least the next two years, which is great news for Los Angeles if he wants to keep playing that long.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Matthew Stafford's Rams contract more about length than money