NFL Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Rams Quarterback Matthew Stafford Seeking Contract Adjustment

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is apparently feeling a little left out. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Stafford "wants his contract adjusted" following recent mega-deals signed by the likes of Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff and Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: #Rams coach Sean McVay feels like it's "Year 1 again" and his QB Matthew Stafford is feeling just as rejuvenated. pic.twitter.com/ivMNH4Y1UP
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 18, 2024

Stafford has three years left on a four-year, $160 million extension signed in 2022. That $40 million per year average falls well behind recent surges in the quarterback market: Goff signed a four-year, $212 million extension ($53M per year) in March, and Lawrence signed a five-year, $275 million extension ($55M per year) earlier this week. Stafford's deal also includes no guaranteed money beyond 2024.

Stafford is a Super Bowl champion and arguably more accomplished than either Goff or Lawrence, so his desire for a comparable deal makes some sense. Unfortunately, he's already 36 years old and has a long history of injury. The Rams should be very hesitant to extend their commitment to him beyond 2026. He'll be 39 before the start of the 2027 season, after all.

Still, the Rams would be wise to keep Stafford happy. He remains a valuable, winning player, and his current deal is unquestionably way out of line with the current quarterback market, tying him for 12th in annual average. Increasing his guarantees could be a fair compromise for both sides.