The primary narrative emerging from the Scouting Combine revolves around conflicting reports concerning the Las Vegas Raiders’ interest in Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. This situation is linked to Stafford’s alleged visit to the home of Raiders minority owner Tom Brady in Montana, which has sparked significant speculation. Reports suggest that this visit, initially reported by Jordan Schultz of Fox, was later downplayed by NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport as just a brief encounter. However, following a heated exchange between Schultz and Rapoport at a Starbucks in Indianapolis, Tom Pelissero from NFL Media tweeted an important update: “Regarding the rumor that Tom Brady hosted Matthew Stafford for a recruiting visit in Montana, Brady’s long-time agent Don Yee stated: ‘I know that reporters can sometimes make inaccuracies in their rush, but this story is inaccurate.’”

It is unusual for a modern reporter to dismiss a digital report as mere “Internet rumor.” In this case, it was a report from an official Fox journalist, who happens to work alongside Brady, lending credibility to the claim. The above-mentioned tweet also seems to attempt to reshape this credible report into something far less substantiated.

Furthermore, one must consider Yee’s response. It’s plausible that the report inadvertently revealed Brady’s potential involvement in tampering, which is why such a denial was issued.

The essential fact is that the initial claim came from a Fox reporter, which gives it weight—especially since Brady is also affiliated with Fox. Yee’s public denial hints at anxiety regarding the implications of these allegations.

Although tampering is commonplace in the NFL, it usually isn’t so overt. If the Rams only permitted limited interactions for Stafford’s agent with other teams—not allowing face-to-face meetings—then a visit to Brady’s residence would breach tampering rules. This situation mirrors the instance when the Miami Dolphins faced penalties for tampering with Brady, resulting in a suspension for owner Stephen Ross and the forfeiture of a first- and third-round draft pick.

To date, the Rams have not clarified whether Stafford’s visit to Brady was consistent with the permissions given for engaging with other teams. However, logical thinking suggests otherwise. Recent comments from Rams coach Sean McVay on the Fitz & Whit podcast indicated that the Rams aimed to allow Stafford the opportunity to gauge other teams’ offers against their current proposal. If the Rams wish to retain Stafford, why would they allow direct, in-person recruitment by other teams?

Ultimately, this discussion has little weight unless the Rams receive a compelling trade offer and Stafford is presented with an appealing contract. Still, if the Rams intended only a very limited interaction and didn’t grant Brady and the Raiders full access, persuading Stafford to stay with the team might become challenging.

This situation underscores the complexities that the tampering regulations strive to prevent.