Rams head coach Sean McVay sends clear message about Matthew Stafford’s NFL future

Matthew Stafford is undoubtedly one of the standout figures for the Los Angeles Rams in recent years. His Super Bowl ring from a few seasons ago has solidified his place with the team, and head coach Sean McVay hopes to continue benefiting from his veteran leadership for years to come in the NFL.

In a recent conversation with the media, the experienced head coach expressed his strong desire to maintain the team’s long-standing culture—one where the on-field leadership continues to be driven by the former Detroit Lions quarterback.

“We have a chance with him every time he’s at the switch, and love working with him. And I think he can play as long as he wants, but fortunately, I’m hoping it’s a couple more years,” McVay told Adam Schein on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio.

February 13, 2022, will forever be etched in the memories of Rams fans, as the team defeated the Bengals to capture the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. Once again, confidence in Stafford has been renewed, with the QB aiming to reach that same pinnacle in the upcoming NFL season.

Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams speaks with head coach Sean McVay prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium on December 28, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

The importance of renewing Stafford’s role with Rams

Much has been said about Matthew Stafford’s future during this offseason. In fact, he was one of the most sought-after quarterbacks on the market, with the Raiders and Giants showing the strongest interest.

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Despite the speculation, the 37-year-old chose to stay in Los Angeles for at least one more season. His decision to remain with the Rams brings value not only from a football standpoint, but also in maintaining the strong connection he shares with head coach Sean McVay.

“When you’re able to have real conversations with people you love and care about, you can go one of two ways. You can either get further apart, or you can get closer,” McVay said. “And there is no question in my mind that he and I are closer than ever. There’s a lot of appreciation, there’s a lot of gratitude that we were able to work through some of those things.

“To ultimately, I heard (general manager) Les (Snead) say it, to renew the vows. And I think there is kind of a renewal of appreciation for the opportunity to continue to work together. It doesn’t go lost on me how fortunate I am to be able to work with somebody as special as he is, both mentally, physically, and more importantly what he means with how he moves as a man, and how he positively affects and influences his teammates and people he’s around.”