Matthew Stafford at the Center of Trade Talks: Could He Be Headed to the NFC North?
Matthew Stafford, former Detroit Lions quarterback and current star for the Los Angeles Rams, is once again the subject of trade rumors. This time, it’s not just any team that’s being discussed—it’s a potential move to a familiar NFC North rival. Imagine Stafford, once the face of the Lions, lining up against his former team twice a season. It might sound like a nightmare to some, but several NFL analysts believe it could actually happen.
The Minnesota Vikings: A Possible New Home for Stafford?
The latest trade speculation has Stafford making his way to none other than the Minnesota Vikings. The idea was highlighted by Ted Schwerzler in a February 6 article for Minnesota Sports Fan. He points out that while the Vikings have some hope for future success with J.J. McCarthy, the former Michigan quarterback, McCarthy’s injury last season left uncertainty about his readiness. Schwerzler notes, “After Sam Darnold performed like a legitimate top quarterback on a cheap deal, there are questions surrounding his potential return.” With McCarthy sidelined, the Vikings could turn to Stafford as a potential upgrade, particularly if they’re unsure about Darnold’s future.
Kelly Stafford Opens the Door to a Possible Move
Meanwhile, Kelly Stafford, Matthew’s wife, made waves on February 6 with her comments on her podcast The Morning After With Kelly Stafford and Hank. During an episode where she discussed the Rams’ trade of wide receiver Cooper Kupp, Kelly dropped hints about a potential move for her husband. “I honestly wasn’t planning on discussing this, but hell, why not,” she began, before diving into her thoughts. “My husband wants to win. He’s not trying to put a team in a bad situation. If you’re catching my drift, you’re catching my drift.” Kelly went on to express her love for L.A., but also made it clear that she’s open to change. “I love the city of L.A. With that being said, I love an adventure.”
It’s clear that Kelly is not overly attached to staying in Los Angeles, though her comments suggest some frustration with recent moves made by the Rams, including the trade of Kupp. This frustration could very well be shared by Matthew, adding another layer of complexity to any potential trade.
What Would the Money Look Like in a Stafford Trade?
As for the logistics of a trade, Schwerzler touches on the financial side of things. Matthew Stafford’s deal with the Rams includes a significant cap hit, but it’s one that might make him attractive to a team like the Vikings. “Stafford’s cap hit is in that realm, but he also is a substantially better quarterback,” Schwerzler writes. For the Vikings, Stafford might be seen as a worthy investment, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Darnold and McCarthy.
The Rams are also in a unique position. Stafford’s contract includes a hefty cap number of $49.6 million for 2025, but they could save substantial money if they trade him. A trade after June 1 would save them $27 million, and even before June 1, they could still free up $23 million.
Could we really see Stafford swap his Rams uniform for a Vikings one? It’s certainly a possibility, and one that could shake up the NFC North for years to come.
