Quarterback Matthew Stafford has discussed extending his career into his 40s with Tom Brady and Drew Brees, according to CR Today. Stafford, who turned 38 in February, spoke about this during a recent interview and reflected on his impressive performance last season.
What happened
Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles Rams quarterback, revealed he has consulted with former NFL stars Tom Brady and Drew Brees about possibly playing beyond his current age. Stafford expressed this during an interview with Chris Long’s Green Light podcast. He stressed the importance of a year-to-year approach to his career, saying, “I think it’s fair to the team, I think it’s fair to me, my family.” Stafford acknowledged the challenges of committing to many years, stating, “Committing to more than that feels a little bit daunting.”[1]
Stafford, who won the MVP award in 2025, completed 65 percent of his passes last season, amassing 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns against only eight interceptions. He mentioned a key conversation with Brees last year, where Brees suggested he could have “your best five years of your career coming up.” This comment motivated Stafford, reshaping his perspective on aging in the game.[3]
Why it matters
Stafford’s discussions regarding longevity reveal a shift in the mindset of aging athletes, particularly in a league known for favoring youth. As quarterbacks extend their careers, teams and fans may need to adjust expectations and acceptance of older players in key roles. Stafford’s decision to take a year-to-year perspective aligns with current NFL strategies that prioritize player well-being and performance over long-term contracts.[2]
Background
On May 20, 2025, Stafford led the Rams to a successful season, securing his first MVP award. Despite speculation about retirement following that standout year, he dispelled those rumors during his MVP acceptance speech. Now, his focus remains on maximizing his performance while navigating the realities of aging.
What’s next
Stafford’s future plans center on the upcoming season, with no firm commitment beyond the current year. The Rams will continue to evaluate his performance as he approaches the 2026 season and beyond.
