One of the most intriguing yet overlooked narratives heading into the upcoming offseason is the potential movement of Matthew Stafford. The former Super Bowl winning quarterback has two remaining years on his current contract, but the structure suggests a year-to-year arrangement with the Los Angeles Rams. This creates an opportunity for both parties to reassess their situation in the upcoming weeks and months.

Stafford has approximately $4 million guaranteed for 2025, with no guaranteed money for 2026 included in his current contract. This situation will likely require adjustment, but it remains uncertain which team will ultimately negotiate Stafford’s future. The Rams find themselves at a crossroads and may consider a soft reset, including the possibility of trading Stafford. The team is already pursuing a deal for wide receiver Cooper Kupp, signaling a shift in their offensive strategy.

If the Rams choose to move Stafford and place him on the trade market, let’s explore a few potential landing spots and consider various trade scenarios for the seasoned quarterback.

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Rams receive: 2025 first-round pick (No. 21 overall), 2025 second-round pick (No. 52 overall), conditional 2026 second-round pick (which can become a first if Stafford plays 65% of the snaps in 2025).
Steelers receive: Matthew Stafford, 2025 first-round pick (No. 26 overall)

This potential trade might appear complicated at first glance, with multiple draft picks exchanged. However, it mirrors the recent deal between the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets involving Aaron Rodgers in 2023. While that deal had its pitfalls for New York, its structure serves as a compelling framework for discussions surrounding a Stafford trade, particularly as both quarterbacks find themselves at similar career junctures.

For the Rams, this proposed trade would yield a higher draft position in the 2025 NFL Draft and secure a valuable second-round pick, along with a possible first-round selection in the following year. With Les Snead’s track record in the draft, the team can feel confident about using those picks to acquire top-tier talent.

On the other hand, the Steelers are in search of a quarterback and find themselves out of reach for a young prospect in what is a relatively thin draft class. Rather than trying to rely on Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, they could take a decisive step by acquiring Stafford in an effort to compete in the AFC North.

Rams receive: 2025 first-round pick (No. 24 overall)
Vikings receive: Matthew Stafford

This trade proposal would make it easier for Jacksonville to acquire Stafford. It revolves around the Vikings’ aspirations to maintain Sam Darnold (who struggled recently) while evaluating J.J. McCarthy. Should they wish to enhance their quarterback situation from Darnold while still giving McCarthy time to grow, Stafford presents a promising option for the next couple of seasons. However, if they believe McCarthy is prepared to take the lead or prefer to retain Darnold, this trade might not be viable for Stafford.

A connection exists between Stafford and the Vikings through head coach Kevin O’Connell, who previously served as Stafford’s offensive coordinator in L.A. during the Rams’ 2021 Super Bowl-winning season, which could facilitate negotiations.

Should this trade materialize, the Rams would be in possession of two first-round selections (No. 24 and No. 26), allowing for greater flexibility in the draft. Additionally, Darnold’s potential departure from Minnesota could provide another quarterbacking option for Los Angeles in their pursuit of a long-term solution.

Rams receive: 2025 second-round pick (No. 34 overall), 2026 second-round pick
Giants receive: Matthew Stafford

In a scenario where the market for Stafford is less robust and securing a first-round pick proves challenging, the New York Giants may emerge as a contender for his services. While the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is off the table for any trade involving Stafford, two second-round picks might entice general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll. Given the pressure on their positions heading into the next season, Stafford could prove to be a pivotal addition, helping to secure success early on.

Additionally, a family connection exists, as the Giants have recently hired Chad Hall, Stafford’s brother-in-law, as their assistant quarterback coach.

Acquiring two second-round draft selections would still represent a solid outcome for the Rams, particularly the 34th overall pick. They could even consider packaging that pick with their own first-rounder (No. 26) to target a specific player if someone drops in the draft.