Stafford thanked his teammates, coaches, and family while standing on stage alongside his four daughters. And just before wrapping up his speech, he answered the question many NFL fans had been wondering — whether he would return next season or call it a career.
Stafford made it clear he’ll be back on the field next year, prompting an immediate reaction from head coach Sean McVay and teammates Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams, who were in attendance and jumped to their feet in celebration.
“I am so happy to have you at the games on the sideline with me, and I can’t wait for you to cheer me on next year when we’re out there kicking [expletive],” Stafford said. “So I’ll see you guys next year. Hopefully I’m not at this event and we’re getting ready for another game at SoFi. I appreciate you all — thank you very much.”
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Stafford has always been able to put up numbers — that has never been in question throughout his NFL career.
But since joining the Rams in a blockbuster trade ahead of the 2021 season, he has won a Super Bowl, consistently played deep into the postseason, and now captured his first MVP Award, leaving little left to accomplish — which may explain why he briefly contemplated retirement.
However, after leading the Rams to a 12–5 record and completing 65.0 percent of his passes for 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, the three-time Pro Bowler isn’t going anywhere just yet, silencing any rumors and doubts heading into the offseason.
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