Matthew Stafford, Rams Negotiating New Contract amid NFL Rumors, Says Sean McVay

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay opened up about Matthew Stafford's desire for a new contract.

Speaking to reporters after day two of the 2024 NFL draft, McVay said the team has "had good dialogue" with their star quarterback and they are "going to try to figure it out."

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Friday that Stafford wants "more guaranteed money" added to his contract.

Stafford has three years remaining on the four-year, $160 million extension he signed with the Rams in March 2022. His deal includes $31 million in guaranteed money for the 2024 season, but none over the final two years.

Despite the contract issues, Rapoport noted Stafford "has been in the building" for the Rams during their offseason activities.

There was some buzz leading up to the draft that the Rams might target a quarterback who could eventually replace the 36-year-old Stafford. Team COO Kevin Demoff admitted in February they would look into that possibility.

"I don't think that that would discourage us from taking another swing at a quarterback prospect but it has to be the right one," Demoff said at an even for Rams season-ticket holders. "When you walk in thinking you need it is when you make mistakes."

The Rams haven't used any of their picks on a quarterback through the first three rounds. Three of their first four picks have been on the defensive side of the ball, with their lone offensive selection being running back Blake Corum in the third round.

Stafford had a successful rebound year in 2023 after an injury-plagued 2022 left some doubts about his long-term outlook in the NFL.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Stafford threw for 3,965 yards and 24 touchdowns in 15 starts last season. He finished eighth in NFL MVP voting to help the Rams make the playoffs as a wild-card team.

The Rams originally acquired Stafford from the Detroit Lions in March 2021. He led them to a victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl 56 in his first season with the club.