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Matthew Stafford Looks Almost Unrecognizable Compared to His Rookie Year

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Aug 25, 2025 9:25 PM ET

Matthew Stafford, who was drafted first overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, is now entering his 17th year in the NFL. Naturally, a lot has changed about him ever since he first stepped foot in the pros.

Aside from having more experience under his belt, and a Super Bowl title to show, what has changed the most for the now Los Angeles Rams quarterback is his physical appearance.

On Monday, the NFL posted a series of photos of former No. 1 overall picks and how they transformed from their first year in the league to the current season. Stafford's look from 2009 to 2025 quickly drew reactions because of how much he has changed — from having chubby cheeks and a bigger build as a 21-year-old to having a chiseled face and a leaner frame as a 37-year-old.

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"Why does Stafford look like Robert Pattinson," a fan pointed out. A commenter added, "Stafford became vengeance."

"Matthew Staford looks so different," a follower stated.

A fourth supporter remarked, "Stafford seen some things."

"Stafford was such a goofball in Detroit," a social media user shared.

What's Next for Matthew Stafford?

An NFL player's career doesn't last long, with the NFL Players' Association stating in the past that the average pro football career lasts just 3.3 years. That being said, Stafford being in his 17th year is a major accomplishment.

However, no one can deny the fact that the former Georgia Bulldogs star is aging. He probably has a few more years left in the tank to play at the highest level. Quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers have played well into their 40s, and the Rams signal-caller has shown the longevity to prove that he's capable of extending his career.

Stafford, however, recently suffered a back injury and missed nearly four weeks of practice with the Rams as a result. He has since returned to practicing with the team, with head coach Sean McVay expecting him to be ready for Week 1 of the 2025 season against the Houston Texans.

Still, at this point in his career, any injury could affect how long Stafford stays in the pros.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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