Matthew Stafford is still playing quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams but preparations for his post-playing career seem like they might be in motion.
On paper, Stafford has all the criteria you’d expect when it comes to an NFL player who wants to transition into a media career after he retires. He’s a decorated quarterback with a Super Bowl title and boyish good looks. What else do you need?
In his 16th NFL season, the 36-year-old’s career is winding down and he doesn’t have much left to prove on the field. With an eye towards the future, Stafford showed up on Fox NFL Kickoff and Fox NFL Sunday this weekend as the Rams had a bye week in what could certainly be seen as a tryout of sorts.
We have Matthew Stafford in the house!! 👏🔥 pic.twitter.com/UW0UBBithX
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 13, 2024
Stafford took some time to discuss the Rams, who “are not where we wanna be at 1-4.”
“We got a little bit of a young team. But a lot of belief in the guys and the coaching staff that we can turn this thing around” — Matthew Stafford pic.twitter.com/jvfs0qMdGs
— Rams Bros. (@RamsBrothers) October 13, 2024
He also shared some thoughts on how he wants to be remembered when he eventually hangs up the cleats.
Big thanks to @RamsNFL QB Matthew Stafford for joining us today! 🚀 pic.twitter.com/YJ3ps5K6XY
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 13, 2024
The Rams QB also stuck around long enough to throw the pigskin around with the Fox NFL Sunday crew as well.
😮 @JimmyJohnson showing off the hands at 81-years-old!@RamsNFL QB Matthew Stafford still playing football on his off day with our guys! @michaelstrahan pic.twitter.com/E362AxaEcV
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 13, 2024
By all accounts, Stafford seemed playful, knowledgeable, and willing to discuss anything thrown his way. We don’t know if and when he might transition into a media career but he certainly seems capable.
Be warned, Rams fans. You might just lose your star quarterback and your star head coach to the broadcasting booth sooner rather than later.
About Sean Keeley
Along with writing for Awful Announcing and The Comeback, Sean is the Managing Editor for Comeback Media. Previously, he created the Syracuse blog Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician and wrote 'How To Grow An Orange: The Right Way to Brainwash Your Child Into Rooting for Syracuse.' He has also written non-Syracuse-related things for SB Nation, Curbed, and other outlets. He currently lives in Seattle where he is complaining about bagels. Send tips/comments/complaints to sean@thecomeback.com.