Turf Show Times
Sean McVay didn’t sound certain on future of Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp heading into offseason
As has been the case over the last few offseasons with the Los Angeles Rams, the futures of quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Cooper Kupp will be a primary topic of discussion. When it comes to Stafford, there are more questions regarding his potential retirement whereas with Kupp, it’s more of a business decision.
Just last offseason before training camp, the Rams re-did Stafford’s contract, essentially wiping any guarantees after 2024. If Stafford does return, a new contract would certainly be part of that. With that said, it doesn’t seem as guaranteed as it has been in the past. At this time last year, head coach Sean McVay was asked whether or not Stafford would be back. Said McVay at the time,
“A hundred percent, absolutely. Unequivocally, yes. He’s ready to go and couldn’t be more committed to having him lead us next year.”
When asked the same question this year, the tone was very different and didn’t seem so certain. McVay said on Thursday,
“We’ll talk about all those things at the appropriate time. I know he’s playing really good football. Obviously, I love him and love working with him. What he’s meant to our football team has been immeasurable in a positive way...I think he’s playing really good football and like I said, when we get back, we’ll talk about all those types of things but I’m sure proud of the body of work and really proud of the way that he’s played. I think the coolest thing you can say about Matthew is he shines the brightest on the biggest stages...He certainly gives you a chance every time you step out on the field and for that I’m sure appreciative.”
On Thursday, McVay beat around the bush a little more than he did this time last year. The Rams head coach seemed to be more appreciative for what Stafford has done rather than a look ahead to the future.
This isn’t to say that Stafford won’t be back in 2025, but until a new contract is signed, nothing is guaranteed. Stafford was asked after the Eagles game if he still had football left and said, “Sure feels like it.” However, some of those things said in the moment can’t be taken at face value. The Rams quarterback will certainly take time to decide what he wants to do and what makes sense for him and go from there.
In the case that Stafford does return, the only team that makes sense is the Rams. For Stafford to uproot his family and start over in another environment for maybe one more year doesn’t make a lot of sense. Even if the Vikings or Jets called, it would be hard to see Stafford saying yes. At the same time, for the Rams to move on from Stafford for someone like Sam Darnold or even roll with Jimmy Garoppolo would feel...
