Trade Tensions Rise: Matthew Stafford Draws Dual Interest from NFL Contenders
As the NFL offseason heats up, a surprising name has reemerged in trade talks—Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. According to multiple league sources, two playoff-contending teams have expressed serious interest in acquiring the former Super Bowl champion, intensifying speculation that the Rams may be willing to part ways with the 36-year-old veteran under the right circumstances.
Stafford, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl LVI victory just three seasons ago, remains one of the league’s most respected signal-callers. Despite battling injuries and inconsistent protection in recent seasons, his arm strength and field vision continue to draw admiration from rival executives. With the Rams entering a soft rebuild centered around youth, Stafford’s high cap hit and win-now pedigree may no longer align with the franchise’s long-term vision.
According to sources close to the situation, the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers are among the teams showing legitimate interest. Both franchises are believed to be in the market for a veteran quarterback who can elevate their offenses and lead postseason runs.
The Vikings, who lost Kirk Cousins to free agency and are leaning on a mix of youth and inexperience, see Stafford as a stabilizing presence. With an offense featuring Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and an improving offensive line, Minnesota views Stafford as a potential bridge quarterback who could keep them competitive in a wide-open NFC North.
The Steelers, on the other hand, are reportedly growing uncertain about former first-round pick Kenny Pickett’s development. Head coach Mike Tomlin is entering a pivotal season, and there’s internal pressure to make a playoff push. Pittsburgh sees Stafford as a plug-and-play veteran who could provide leadership, toughness, and the ability to stretch the field in a way the team’s current quarterbacks have struggled to do.
Despite the growing interest, Rams head coach Sean McVay has remained noncommittal in public statements. “Matthew is a leader in our locker room and someone we value highly,” McVay said earlier this week. “Any speculation about his future would be just that—speculation.”
However, league insiders believe the Rams are quietly weighing their options. Stafford is owed over $30 million in guaranteed money for the 2025 season, and the team could gain valuable cap flexibility by moving his contract. Additionally, the Rams could potentially receive a second- or third-round pick in return, a significant asset for a team looking to retool its roster.
Stafford has not requested a trade, but those close to the quarterback suggest he would be open to a move if it meant competing for another championship. With training camp looming, any deal would likely need to materialize in the coming weeks for Stafford to acclimate to a new system.
For now, Stafford remains a Ram—but with two contenders circling and trade talks escalating, the NFL world is watching closely to see whether a blockbuster move could reshape the playoff landscape before the season begins.
