Schefter: Matthew Stafford, Rams Have Mutual New Contract 'Goal' amid NFL Rumors

There is still some uncertainty regarding Matthew Stafford's immediate future, but the veteran quarterback and Los Angeles Rams reportedly have a "goal" in place where he would finish his NFL career with the NFC West team.

"He's due $35 million this year, none of it is guaranteed," ESPN's Adam Schefter explained Tuesday. "It's up to those two sides to figure out a number that the Rams can live with and that Matthew Stafford is more comfortable with that would enable continue and finish his NFL career with the Rams.

"That's the goal, I believe, of both sides. Now, that could change rather quickly."

This could be an offseason of significant change in Los Angeles, as wide receiver Cooper Kupp already revealed earlier this month that the team is looking to trade him.

Kupp was the Super Bowl MVP during the 2021 season, which was also Stafford's first year with the Rams after they acquired him via trade from the Detroit Lions. They have been two of the foundational pieces in the team's run of success with three playoff appearances in the last four years.

It seems like Stafford is far more likely to return for the 2025 campaign, although it will surely depend on the contract situation.

In addition to Schefter's report, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Sunday that the team has a "strong interest" in bringing him back even though his current contract is "untenable."

That is why the mutual detail of Schefter's report is so notable. Stafford understands the team wants him back at a more favorable number, and that could be the deciding factor if he truly does want to remain in Los Angeles.

If he does, the Rams once again figure to be a playoff threat given his track record with the team.