Reporter reveals if Matthew Stafford will be Rams starting QB in 2024
Even though Matthew Stafford turns 36 in February, expect him to be the Rams starting quarterback in 2024.
"There's no reason to think Stafford won't be the Rams starting QB next season," wrote ESPN's Sarah Barshop. "[Head coach] Sean McVay and the front office are big fans of Stafford, and logistically, it wouldn't make sense to move on from him. Stafford's 2024 salary is guaranteed ($31M), and a trade before June 1 would leave Los Angeles with $55.5 million in dead money."
Stafford — entering the third year of a four-year, $160M deal — has justified his salary with solid play, helping L.A. get back in the playoff hunt.
In 11 games, he's completed 60.7 percent of his passes for 2,768 yards, 16 TDs, nine interceptions and an above-average 59.7 QBR. The New York Times simulator gives the Rams (6-6) a 48 percent chance to make the postseason after winning three straight games.
"The guys have done a great job of executing," L.A. head coach Sean McVay said of the team's win streak on Monday, via Greg Beacham of the Associated Press. "I think Matthew has done a great job of distributing the ball. You always want to be able to keep your quarterback clean, pick and choose your spots, but ultimately, it's a credit to Matthew and the offensive line's execution."
At some point, the Rams must add another QB. Los Angeles recently signed Super Bowl champion Carson Wentz, but he's serving as a backup, not his understudy. Rookie Stetson Bennett — a fourth-round pick out of Georgia — hasn't played this season and is on the reserve/non-football injury list (illness).
However, it's good for Los Angeles that Stafford is still a viable starter, and it doesn't need to seek a replacement immediately.
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