A former Georgia Bulldog is earning a massive increase in his wallet. Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford was signed to a one-year, $55 million contract, according to Adam Schefter. Stafford now has two years and $105 million left on his contract with the Rams.
The $55 million deal could be $60 million with incentives. The extra $5 million is tied to playoff success, although those terms haven’t been announced as of yet.
It’s important in picturing his future with the Rams. They selected Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson with the No. 13 pick in the 2026 NFL draft. While Simpson certainly isn’t upstaging the reigning MVP of the league, the thought is that Simpson will learn under Stafford and become the starter in the future. With Stafford’s new contract expiring after the 2027-28 season, the timeline might be clearer.
While that seems like a foolproof plan, it invites scrutiny towards the Rams for drafting Simpson in the first place. This move signifies that Simpson might not start until 2028, and with the Rams in a win-now mode with Stafford, they could’ve used the pick on a lot of other positions.
Another edge rusher to pair with Jared Verse, like Rueben Bain Jr., would’ve been a worthwhile addition. Wide receiver Makai Lemon, who won the 2025-26 Biletnikoff trophy, could’ve also been a good option at that pick.
Stafford should have at least two more years of prime play left. The 36-year-old gunslinger didn’t play like a typical 36-year-old quarterback last season. He threw for 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions, winning the 2025 MVP for his play.
Stafford became the third former Georgia player to win the NFL MVP, alongside Terrell Davis (1998) and Fran Tarkenton (1975). He will try to become the first to win multiple MVPs in the upcoming two seasons.
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This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Rams sign $55 million contract with Matthew Stafford