The Los Angeles Rams are listed at +3 odds. A $10 wager on the Rams could result in $24.50 if they win, $20.00 if they lose by less than 3 points, or $15.71 if they lose. On the other hand, the Detroit Lions, listed at -3, would provide a $15.71 return on a $10 bet if they win, $18.33 if they win by exactly 3 points, and $24.50 if they lose. Recently, former Rams quarterback Jared Goff signed a four-year, $212 million extension with the Lions, including $170 million guaranteed, which is significantly larger than the $160 million extension Matthew Stafford received from the Rams in 2022.
Given this context, Rams fans are largely opposed to offering Stafford a similar large extension, with only 31% supporting such a deal.
Regardless of what the fanbase might think of Jared Goff, he deserved his extension given his recent work in the Motor City. In 2023, Goff guided the Lions to a 12-5 season, leading the franchise to its first-ever NFC North title and an appearance in the NFC Championship. The former first-overall pick resurrected his career in Detroit and we’re about to find out whether he lives up to this contract.
As for Stafford, I would agree with the fans who are against him earning a Goff-sized extension. Stafford is not worth over $50 million a year at this stage of his career. The Georgia product is 36 years old and has a concerning injury history. Since signing his contract extension with LA, Stafford has missed nine games, including half of the 2022 campaign.
Giving a signal caller a contract like Goff at his age would be a dangerous risk for the Rams front office. Despite playing like a top-five QB when healthy, this should not be a discussion. I love Matthew Stafford but Les Snead must resist the temptation.