Rams' Matthew Stafford still in elite company in recent NFL QB rankings

The Los Angeles Rams are starting to realistically think about a Matthew Stafford succession plan. 

That doesn't mean Stafford still isn't really good.

In 2023, Stafford played some of his most breathtaking football. He threw for 3,965 yards, 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Most of all, he led the Rams on a 6-1 stretch that landed the Rams in the playoffs. For his performance, Stafford landed himself among the elite in a recent Bleacher Report quarterback ranking. 

Here is what Bleacher Report said about Stafford: 

"While Stafford may be among the NFL's elder statesmen, he's still capable of making throws that few quarterbacks in the NFL would even attempt."

They added: 

"His ability to make jaw-dropping, off-platform throws with pinpoint accuracy made Stafford a football unicorn long before Mahomes and Allen took over."

Stafford's greatness was on display against the Detroit Lions in the NFL playoffs. Banged up, he threw for nearly 400 yards and two touchdowns. In year 15, he still almost carried a good Rams team to a playoff win against a great Lions squad. 

Thus, he is still recognized as among an elite class. The Rams may be thinking about who will be the signal caller soon. But if Stafford is still playing at an elite level, his replacement may have to sit for a few more years until he is ready to give up the reigns.