For a hot minute, it looked like Matthew Stafford might be packing his bags. The rumor mill was working overtime, linking him to the Raiders, the Giants, even the Colts—because apparently, every team with QB uncertainty was tossing Stafford’s name into the mix. The Rams? They weren’t exactly shutting it down, either. Heck, they even gave him the green light to explore a trade.

And just like that, Stafford Watch 2025 was in full swing. Would he head to Vegas and be a part of Tom Brady‘s rebuild plans? Maybe pull a Broadway move and take over in New York? Or, plot twist—stick around and run it back in L.A.? The possibilities were endless. Well, until they weren’t.

Because on Friday, the Rams made it official: Stafford isn’t going anywhere. They reworked his deal, squashed the trade talk, and sent a message loud and clear—No. 9 is still their guy. The Rams even doubled down on social media, calling it what it is: “He’s here to stay.”

So, what changed? Money, mostly. His old contract wasn’t exactly screaming long-term commitment, and Stafford wanted security. The Rams? They weren’t keen on breaking the bank, but they also weren’t ready to start over at quarterback.

And then, maybe, they realized what Stafford could (still) offer at 37. If closing the last season at 20 TDs to just 8 INTs was not enough, Sean McVay and Co. must have felt safe enough to know that in him they’d at least get a guy whose ready to put on the headset and guide the future under center for the Rams. That’s the least. But a BIG ONE!

So, in the end, they met in the middle—Stafford gets his guaranteed money, the Rams keep their veteran leader, and the QB carousel spins on without him. But there’s still one tail beating around the bush: What happens to the other franchises who were after his services?

Matthew Stafford hits Tom Brady and the Raiders with an UNO reverse

Tom Brady may have seven rings, but even he can’t win them all.

The Raiders’ minority owner had his sights set on Matthew Stafford, reportedly pulling out all the stops to bring him to Vegas. From ski trips to “coincidental” run-ins at a Montana resort, Brady was in full recruiter mode. Some even called him out for infringing the league’s tampering policy… But just like a perfectly timed goal-line stand, Stafford had other plans.

Instead of heading to the Sin City, Stafford is staying put in L.A. for his fifth season with the Rams. The team has decided to lock him in with a new contract, shutting down any trade talk before it could pick up real momentum. So, what does that mean for the QB-needy teams who had him circled on their wish lists? Well, it’s time to call an audible.

The Raiders, desperate for a franchise quarterback, were hoping Stafford would be the answer. But with that option off the board, they’re looking at the draft—or possibly dusting off their old Russell Wilson playbook. Brady might have been pitching Stafford hard, but it turns out Vegas wasn’t the right bet.

Over in New York, the Giants were never a perfect fit for Stafford, but his decision makes their draft plans much clearer. Brian Daboll and company now have a prime opportunity to target Miami’s Cam Ward at No. 3.

As for Stafford, he’s right where he wants to be. At 37, he’s sticking with Sean McVay, hoping to run it back for another playoff push. The Rams made their call, and Stafford didn’t hesitate to answer. Sure, there was a little preseason drama where he just sat back and reminded everyone who’s really in control. I mean, after all, a little fun can never do no harm… Right?!