Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford addressed his NFL future just moments after the team’s heartbreaking 28-22 divisional round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. With the sting of the loss still fresh, Stafford, who has two years remaining on his contract, stated he would take time to reflect on what comes next.
“I feel like I was playing some pretty good ball,” Stafford said after the game. When asked about his future in the league, he responded, “Sure feels like it,” signaling his belief that he still has more to give in the NFL.
Stafford, 35, was playing through a rib injury during the game, an issue that he had been dealing with for some time but was aggravated early in the contest. Despite the injury, Stafford completed 26 of 44 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns, without throwing any interceptions. However, his two fumbles, one of which was lost in the fourth quarter, loomed large in the final moments of the game.
The loss marked the end of a season that saw the Rams recover from a rocky start, going from a 1-4 record to win nine of their next 11 games and secure a spot in the NFC divisional round. Head coach Sean McVay praised Stafford’s toughness and leadership, describing him as the embodiment of resilience and grit.
“I think he epitomizes a lot of the stuff that’s right about him in terms of toughness, resilience, ability to overcome adversity. He’s a total freaking stud,” McVay said. “I’m sure damn proud of Matthew Stafford.”
The Rams were within striking distance in the final minutes, with a first down at the Eagles’ 21-yard line and just over a minute left on the clock. But penalties and a costly sack led to a fourth-down pass attempt that fell incomplete, sealing their fate.
“We had every opportunity to be able to win that game at the end there,” McVay added. “And we’re a couple plays away from me being a lot happier right now. … I’m happy to be a part of this team and proud of this group. And I’m really bummed out that this journey is over.”
Stafford, despite the disappointment of the loss, remained optimistic when discussing the future. “Had a chance for it and didn’t get it done,” Stafford said. “But I love competing. I love being in those moments. Sure as hell not afraid of them. And competed my ass off and it didn’t go the way I wanted to today. Next time I’m out there, line it up. Let’s do it again.”
As Matthew Stafford looks ahead, the Los Angeles Rams and their fans will be hoping that the veteran quarterback can continue to deliver high-level play as they regroup for the 2025 season.
