We are two days into the NFL Scouting Combine and the Matthew Stafford saga rolls on. As we have been reporting, both Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams seem a ways off in their negotiations. That does not mean a deal won’t get done, but with the new league year just a few weeks away, the clock is ticking, and the Rams will need some clarity ASAP.
Just a few days ago, they granted Stafford and his agent permission to speak with other teams to get a feel for his market.
We know that there are multiple teams interested and we know that Matthew Stafford is seeking $50+ million per season. The Rams seem to value him a good amount below that.
Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel co-hosts the Scoop City Podcast with Dianna Russini. On their last episode, they discussed all things Stafford and the latest intel from the Rams side. Not that this will happen, but Daniel (one of the league’s highest-paid backup QBs of all time) gave a wild suggestion if Stafford is not able to get his contract demands met.
Chase Daniel Suggests That Matthew Stafford Should Retire If Contract Demands Not Met
In the clip below, Russini makes the claim that the Rams are comfortable with Jimmy Garoppolo if they cannot get a deal done with Stafford.
“Here’s what I know. The Rams are comfortable with Jimmy Garoppolo,” says Russini.
Daniel responds in disbelief. Russini continues.
“Well Matthew Stafford is looking for, you know, over $50 million a year. We’re talking two years, up to a $110 million deal. Matthew goes out, sees that there is no market for him at the price he wants, and the Rams say, ‘Alright we’ll bring you back for $40 million’. Don’t you think that’s a fair number?”
Daniel responds, “$40 million is a travesty. At this point, to be completely honest with you, from a player’s perspective, I would retire.”
Daniel went on to talk about how Stafford is up there with the Top 9 highest-paid quarterbacks and should be compensated like that.
Also Read: What Will Matthew Stafford’s Legacy Be With The Los Angeles Rams If Traded
We had an in-depth conversation about this on the Rams LAFB Show just today. It is a really interesting situation, and there are fair arguments for both sides. However, whatever Stafford thinks he is worth, if he does want to play, and does care about winning another Super Bowl, I’m not sure retiring over a few million dollars is the legacy he would want to leave.
At the end of the day, Matthew Stafford does still have a lot left in the tank, and as it stands, gives the Rams the best chance to win next year. But one place you never want to be in is quarterback purgatory. Would giving in to his wishes of a $50+ million per year contract push them towards this in the future? If the Rams win another Super Bowl in 2025 would anyone care?
Until a deal gets struck, Los Angeles Rams fans will be at the edge of their seats for the foreseeable future.