The Los Angeles Rams have granted quarterback Matthew Stafford’s representatives permission to explore trade opportunities this offseason, though it’s not certain that Stafford will be dealt.
Stafford, who led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory, is reportedly seeking an annual salary surpassing $50 million.
In light of this, the Rams are encouraging Stafford to assess his market value by engaging with other teams.
Despite these discussions, both sides may still come to an agreement that would keep the 37-year-old signal-caller in Los Angeles for the foreseeable future.
However, there are teams eager to acquire Stafford’s services.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter highlighted three particular teams that have emerged as the clear frontrunners in the trade market.
The three teams are the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
With both their general manager and head coach under major pressure, the Giants are said to be “all-in” on pursuing the veteran Stafford, even if it requires a hefty financial investment and trade compensation.
“Whoever gives us the best chance to win right now,” Big Blue general manager Joe Schoen said when asked who he plans to go after in the quarterback market.
“Where we are again, as of today, I don’t know if one of those guys are going to be there or if there’s one in this draft. We’re still going through that process.”
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders are also on the lookout for a new signal-caller, with minority owner Tom Brady reportedly working behind the scenes to recruit Stafford.
Brady and Stafford just so happened to “run into each other” at a ski resort in Montana recently.
The details and reporting of this meeting ended up causing a confrontation between two of the league’s premier insiders – NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz.
When talking about the search for win-now quarterbacks, you know the Pittsburgh Steelers need to be mentioned.
With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields set to hit free agency, the Steelers are closely monitoring the Stafford situation.
There were many who felt that Pittsburgh might be interested in Aaron Rodgers – and perhaps they are – but the early reporting is that they much prefer Stafford over Rodgers.
Last season, Stafford threw for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, leading the Rams to the NFC West title and a trip to the Divisional Round where they nearly knocked off the eventual champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite his age, the fact of the matter is Stafford is still an elite quarterback in the NFL. He’s always been underappreciated, and in many ways, he still is.
What are your thoughts on the Stafford situation? … At the end of the day, where do you think the future Hall of Famer will be taking his snaps next season???
