Matthew Stafford is set to return to the Rams for the 2026 season, with rumors of a contract extension that could keep him in Los Angeles beyond that year. Significant progress has been reported in negotiations for the extension.
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The Los Angeles Rams were not sure if quarterback Matthew Stafford would return or retire after the 2025 season.
The 2025 NFL Most Valuable Player ultimately decided to come back to the Rams for the 2026 season. And now, there are rumors that Stafford could sign a contract extension that keeps him with Los Angeles past next season.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Rams and Stafford have made “significant progress’ towards a contract extension. He added that coach Sean McVay said Stafford could play beyond the 2026 season.
“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 on NFL Network on Monday.
From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: The #Rams are extending MVP Matthew Stafford, who has shown zero signs of actually aging. pic.twitter.com/JlqEwjtaI5
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2026
Stafford is currently signed to a two-year, $84 million contract that runs through the 2026 season. The Rams have expressed they are open to keeping Stafford on the team for as long as he is willing to play, so Stafford could postpone his retirement a few more years and stick with Los Angeles.
Despite turning 38 in February, the 17-season veteran is still going strong as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. He completed 388 of his 597 pass attempts and threw for 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns in 17 games last season.
Stafford led the Rams to the NFC championship game against the Seattle Seahawks last season. But now, Los Angeles has its eye on winning the Super Bowl next season at home at SoFi Stadium.
Matthew Stafford is expected to return for the 2026 season, and negotiations for a contract extension are underway.
Yes, reports suggest that Stafford could play beyond 2026 if a contract extension is finalized.
Ian Rapoport reported that the Rams and Stafford have made significant progress on a contract extension, focusing on extending his contract rather than a raise this year.
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Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) passes against the Seattle Seahawks during the first half in the 2026 NFC Championship Game at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
The Rams officially started their offseason workouts on Monday.
Photo Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
The post Rams’ Matthew Stafford Contract Update Hints at Career Beyond 2026 appeared first on LA Sports Report.