In perhaps one of the more surprising storylines of the NFL offseason, the Rams and Matthew Stafford appear headed for a divorce. And now that Los Angeles has granted Stafford and his agent permission to talk to other teams, a trade seems like it's inevitable at this point.
So even though some could argue dealing Stafford is a mistake, here are the most likely destinations for the 37-year-old future Hall of Famer.
Pittsburgh Steelers
It's no secret the Steelers are in the market for a quarterback upgrade. Despite lingering questions about Arthur Smith as a play-caller and the futures of Najee Harris and George Pickens, Pittsburgh's top priority is improving its production from the quarterback position.
Stafford, who threw for 3,762 yards with 20 touchdowns and only eight interceptions, would instantly provide the Steelers with their most dynamic signal-caller since Ben Roethlisberger.
And while some may view Stafford as similar to Russell Wilson as far as an aging veteran option, Stafford has shown he's still able to play at a much higher level and is coming off a 324-yard performance against the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles in the playoffs.
New York Giants
The Giants gave up on Daniel Jones during their miserable 2024 season. And even though Stafford may not be enough on his own to make New York a contender after a 3-14 season, he would have a big-time weapon in Malik Nabers.
Stafford and his outspoken wife, Kelly, may also embrace going from one major city to another.
Minnesota Vikings
Obviously, Minnesota only makes sense if it does not bring back Sam Darnold. But if the Vikings decide against investing in Darnold long-term, trading for Stafford would provide a short-term answer.
Instead of handing the keys to J.J. McCarthy and forcing a team that just made the playoffs to endure the growing pains that often come from a lack of experience, Stafford would be able to step in and continue the flow of the offense, at least for one more season.
Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas might be the perfect new home for Stafford. Separate from being the closest move and offering some continuity lifestyle-wise, the hiring of Pete Carroll has created newfound excitement in Raider Nation.
Bringing in an established quarterback like Stafford would provide Carroll with someone to help him elevate talent and expedite the rebuilding process.
But in all reality, the Raiders need so much help that they probably can't afford to give up draft capital for any one player in a trade.
The Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets are other teams to watch if Stafford is indeed traded.
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