Matthew Stafford Being 'Tough as S--t' is Why He's Ranked Among Top 10 QBs, Says Coach

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford's toughness factored into his high ranking among players at his position.

"Cause he's tough as s--t," an NFL coordinator explained to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. "Elite poise and toughness in the pocket. The ability to throw with timing and location while he's about to get hit in the chin is among the best."

Stafford was ranked as the No. 6 quarterback in the NFL in a survey of executives, coaches and scouts conducted by Fowler.

He was listed above Justin Herbert, Jared Goff, Jalen Hurts and Baker Mayfield.

ESPN Quarterback Rankings

1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs

2. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills

3. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals

4. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens

5. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders

6. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams

7. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers

8. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions

9. Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles

10. Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Stafford appeared in 16 regular-season games for the Rams last season despite dealing with an ankle sprain and broken ribs. His only missed contest occurred in Week 18, as Los Angeles rested several key starters after clinching the NFC West crown.

The 37-year-old completed 65.8 percent of his throws for 3,762 yards and 20 touchdowns to go along with eight interceptions during his 2024 campaign.

Stafford stepped up during the Rams' playoff run that ended in the divisional round, passing for 533 yards and four touchdowns without getting picked off in two postseason appearances.

While the two-time Pro Bowler prepares to enter his 17th season in the NFL, he's still highly respected throughout the league.