NFL Rumors: Matthew Stafford Could Skip OTAs Amidst Contract Dispute as Lions Reward Former Rams QB Jared Goff With $212M Extension

In the high-stakes game of NFL contracts, a new drama unfolds with Matthew Stafford at its center. The Los Angeles Rams quarterback is eyeing a more secure financial future with the team. Stafford’s current contract, a four-year, $160 million deal, guarantees him $31 million for the 2024 season but leaves him without assurances beyond that. Considering the Rams could part ways with him after the 2024 season, Stafford is pushing for a contract adjustment to secure guaranteed money for 2025 and 2026.

The Rams’ leadership, represented by coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead, has been tight-lipped about the situation. When probed about Stafford’s dissatisfaction and the potential for a revised contract, McVay acknowledged having “good dialogue with Matthew,” but insisted on keeping the discussions private.

The possibility of Stafford skipping the upcoming Organized Team Activities (OTAs) looms as a silent protest to the contract stalemate as reported by CBS Sports. McVay’s response to this scenario was noncommittal, emphasizing the importance of Stafford feeling “appreciated” and hinting at a mutual desire to resolve. However, the lack of a definitive answer suggests a complex negotiation ahead.

Stafford’s injury history at the end of the league seems to have made the Rams hesitate to take any increased risk. Although he had a solid reputation as the Lions’ keeper, Stafford did sustain injuries over the past two seasons, including a loss of eight games in 2022. However, this story of adversity could make the Rams have second thoughts about lofty financial guarantees for the 36-year-old QB.

The situation is a stark contrast to the Detroit Lions’ recent decision to award former Rams quarterback Jared Goff– who was traded for Matthew Stafford in 2021. As Stafford seeks similar financial stability, the NFL community watches closely, anticipating the next play in this high-profile contract negotiation.

Jared Goff joins the Hurts-Lamar Jackson-Herbert-Burrow party!

In a bold move that underscores their commitment to building a winning team, the Detroit Lions have made Jared Goff the highest-paid player in franchise history with a four-year, $212 million extension as reported by Adam Schefter. This lucrative deal, which includes $170 million guaranteed, not only rewards Goff’s performance but also solidifies his role as a cornerstone of the team’s future.

The contract extension of Goff happens at a time when the NFL quarterbacks push up their salaries to unparalleled levels. Among his colleagues (Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert, and Joe Burrow), all reached agreements well above $50 million annually. Although the classic verdict for Goff would not categorically rank him at the top of elite NFL quarterbacks, his steady performance and increased improvements — accumulating career-high 67.3% of his passes for 4,575 yards in 2023 — make a strong case for his new contract.

The Lions’ General Manager, Brad Holmes, has been vocal about his belief in Goff, stating, “Jared has grown every season he’s been with us, and we’re excited to see him lead our team.” This extension is a clear signal that Detroit values Goff’s leadership and is willing to invest heavily in its pursuit of success. With this deal, the Lions are not just betting on Goff’s arm, but on their vision for the team’s future—a vision they believe is worth every penny of the $444 million they’ve committed to their core players this offseason like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell.