Kelly Stafford Expresses Relief After Matthew Stafford’s Contract Restructure with the Rams
Kelly Stafford, wife of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, has publicly shared her relief following the recent agreement between her husband and the Rams on a restructured contract. The new deal, while not extending Stafford’s time with the team beyond his original extension, significantly increases his salary over the remaining two seasons of his contract. Kelly’s candid discussion on her podcast, "The Morning After," revealed the emotional rollercoaster she experienced during the period of uncertainty surrounding Stafford’s future with the team.
The news of the restructured contract brought a sense of stability and contentment to the Stafford household. Kelly, who has openly discussed the swirling rumors of a potential trade, expressed her joy at the prospect of Stafford remaining in Los Angeles. Her enthusiasm was palpable as she exclaimed, "Holy s— am I so glad we’re here," during the podcast episode.
Kelly contrasted her own emotional turmoil with Matthew’s ability to remain composed and focused throughout the negotiation process. "He’s very good at compartmentalizing everything," she said of her husband. "Me on the other hand, when he says you think about the uncertainty all the time you go crazy – I went f—ing mad, I went so crazy." The stress of the unknown clearly took a toll on Kelly, highlighting the personal impact of professional sports decisions on athletes’ families.
Speculation about Stafford’s future with the Rams began to surface following the conclusion of the 2024 season. Reports emerged suggesting that the team was initially hesitant to renegotiate the four-year, $160 million contract extension he signed in 2022. Adding fuel to the fire, it was even rumored that the Rams had granted Stafford permission to explore his value with other teams around the league.
These reports created a cloud of doubt and anxiety for Kelly, who admitted to struggling with the uncertainty. The possibility of uprooting their lives and relocating to a new city loomed large, further intensifying her emotional distress. The constant media speculation and the lack of clarity from the Rams organization contributed to her feelings of unease.
However, last Friday brought a sense of resolution as the Rams announced that they had reached an agreement with Stafford on a restructured deal. While the specific details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed, Rams head coach Sean McVay clarified that the deal did not add any additional years to Stafford’s contract, ensuring that he will remain in Los Angeles through the 2026 season.
Kelly expressed her gratitude for McVay’s transparency and open communication with Stafford throughout the negotiation process. "I give him so much credit in that," she said of McVay. "I just felt like he wanted to make sure that everything was good for everybody and I was grateful for that." The strong relationship between Stafford and McVay appeared to play a significant role in the ultimate resolution of the contract situation.
Kelly further emphasized the importance of Stafford’s desire to continue playing for McVay and the Rams organization. "I know that all you want to do is play for [McVay] too. I think the uncertainty killed me in a lot of ways, but, at the end of the day, what I want is what’s best for you," she stated. Her words underscored the sacrifices and compromises that often accompany a life in professional sports.
Ultimately, the Staffords’ shared desire to remain in Los Angeles and continue their journey with the Rams proved to be a driving force in the contract negotiations. "This is where we both wanted to be, and I’m just glad he gets to play for the team and the coach that he wants to end his career with," Kelly added.
Stafford’s performance on the field last season further solidified his value to the Rams. He passed for 3,762 yards and 20 touchdowns, leading the team to a 10-7 record and an NFC West title. The Rams advanced to the divisional round of the playoffs before suffering a loss to the eventual Super Bowl champions.
Amid the contract negotiations, the New York Giants were mentioned as a potential trade destination for Stafford. However, the restructured deal with the Rams effectively put an end to those rumors, ensuring that Stafford will remain in Los Angeles for the foreseeable future.
The resolution of Stafford’s contract situation brings a sense of closure and optimism to both the player and his family. With the uncertainty behind them, the Staffords can now focus on the upcoming season and the pursuit of another Super Bowl championship with the Rams. The bond between Matthew and Kelly Stafford is a testament to their partnership, and their shared commitment to each other’s happiness is evident in their words and actions.
