WOODLAND HILLS, CA — Coming off a season that earned him 2025 NFL MVP honors, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is zeroed in on one thing, winning now. His one-year, $55 million contract extension through the 2027 season is finalized, there’s a rookie protégé in the building, and stellar wide receiver Puka Nacua has returned from rehab. Stafford says he can now fully focus on getting the Rams back to the Super Bowl.
“It was good. I obviously have a ton of respect for our team and our organization,” Stafford said of finalizing his extension. “Happy to have next year taken care of if I decide to play, and they still want me back. But no — just excited to get that behind me. I just want to come out here and play, not think about that kind of stuff. So great to get that done sooner rather than later.”
That settled business frees Stafford to focus on preparation and leadership as the Rams enter a season of high expectations. A new dynamic in the quarterback room is rookie Ty Simpson, the Alabama product and first‑round pick whom Stafford has already begun mentoring.
“I think my job, first and foremost, is just to get myself and our team ready to play as best I possibly can,” Stafford told Nitecast Media. “He’s a part of that team. There’s no question about it. We’re in a unique situation because we play the same position. I have a ton of experience. He’s just starting his journey as an NFL player. I know he’s going to watch not only me but also guys like Stetson [Bennett], who’s been around a little bit too. He’ll really soak up as much coaching as he can. He’s a guy who asks questions. I have been trying to answer those questions as honestly and thoroughly as I can. He’s a smart kid and obviously has talent. He’s a high draft pick. Happy to add good players to our team—he’s one of them. But my job is to go out there and get myself and our team as ready to play as I possibly can.”
Stafford noted productive talks with coach Sean McVay about the draft and roster but kept details private. “I’m not going into specifics. I appreciate our open dialogue and relationship. I understand the team’s view—I’m not 25—so we’re focused on success now and in the future.”
A key offseason storyline was Puka Nacua’s recovery. Stafford praised his progress and highlighted his role as both teammate and supporter.
“He’s looked fantastic. I’m happy he’s back to doing what he loves,” Stafford said. “I talk with him constantly—he’s a great kid. I offer advice or just support him as a friend. Everyone’s doing their part to support him, because he’s a special player and person.“
Stafford’s answers projected a veteran at ease in leadership. He accepted the mentor role patiently, protected the locker room’s chemistry, and, with his contract settled, now resists distraction from off-field talk.
The Rams enter 2026 in a familiar place with a roster built to contend now. The sting of last season’s NFC Championship loss to the Seattle Seahawks remains a motivation. Stafford left no doubt about the ultimate aim. They’re dedicated to being better this season, the taste of reaching the Super Bowl at SoFi Stadium is very favorable and will only increase as the season progresses.
