Rams Tried To Cut Losses on $160 Million Matthew Stafford Post Lacklustre Lombardi Defense

The Rams had a dismal season last year immediately after winning Super Bowl LVI. Their 5-12 record last year is easily one of the worst for any defending Champion. Rams Super Bowl-winning QB Matthew Stafford almost had the axe on his head for the poor run. 

The shocking revelations come through a Pat McAfee podcast that features NFL Executive Mike Lombardi. He confirms that there were aggressive attempts to move Matthew Stafford out, however; it failed. The contract carries huge liability that is probably stopping clubs to pursue the offer.

Rams cheekily try to Trade Matthew Stafford offseason

Mike Lombardi made a shocking revelation on the Pat McAfee podcast. He states that “Before his option bonus was kicking in the Rams attempted with a lot of effort to move Matthew Stafford.” However, the move could not happen despite the efforts. The move could only happen through a trade, but someone would have to absorb $59 Million.

They had a championship-winning side loaded with heavy superstars that came at a cost of future drafts. Some have departed, notable names include Odell Beckham Jr., Jalen Ramsey, and Von Miller. So, as a last resort to cut costs and save them from losses, they tried trading Stafford.

Matthew is the 5th highest paid Quarterback currently on the whole NFL Roaster. His $160 Million deal and $40 Million average per year pay are only behind Patrick Mahomes, Aaron Rodgers, Josh Allen, and Deshaun Watson. It is on the cards that Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts will overtake him with their new contracts from the 2023 season.  

Matthew Stafford’s draft, injury, and poor form 

Matthew Stafford was drafted by the Rams from the Detroit Lions in a deal that helps both clubs. The Lions end up receiving Jared Goff, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Jameson Williams, Josh Paschal, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and Brodric Martin. 

The Rams were rewarded for their deal immediately as Matthew helped them win Super Bowl LVI. He threw for 4,886 yards with 41 touchdowns and 17 interceptions in the 2021 regular season. The breakout performance helped Stafford strike a $160 M 4-year deal with the Rams. The deal guarantees him $120 Million from Super Bowl LVI till the 2023 season. 

Unfortunately, he immediately had injury issues the next season. His injury forced him to play in only 9 games. He could only throw for 2,087 yards with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season. 

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The dip in form has made the Management think over their decision. However, it is the payout amount of $59 Million that worries the Rams. Recent departures have also dented them. So, at the moment, they look like a team in the rebuilding phase again. 

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