New NFL Rumors on Matthew Stafford's Rams Contract Talks After Ty Simpson Draft Pick

Despite drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 pick, the Los Angeles Rams reportedly are in no rush to replace veteran signal-caller Matthew Stafford.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Rams and Stafford are "deep in discussions on a contract extension that will take care of him for next season and beyond, and they do believe there's a real chance he plays after 2026."

The 2026 season is the final year remaining on Stafford's current contract, and he's set to count for a $48.3 million cap hit. After being named the 2025 NFL MVP, it's clear that the 38-year-old still has a lot left in the tank.

Still, the Rams raised some eyebrows when they selected Simpson, anointing him as their quarterback of the future and Stafford's heir apparent. The move gives Los Angeles time to develop the 23-year-old while Stafford plays out the latter part of his career.

Rams head coach Sean McVay made it clear that the selection of Simpson doesn't impact the team's relationship with Stafford, who was informed of the pick beforehand.

"There were a lot of players that we liked, but when you do look at it, I think the thing you liked about the body of work is … let's make one thing clear, this is Matthew's team," McVay said, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. "You get a chance to be able to address the backup quarterback."

The Rams are hoping to set themselves up to remain in contention now and in the future, and it sounds like everyone is on the same page with having Stafford lead the team until letting Simpson take over when he's ready to call it a career.