3 takeaways from Matthew Stafford’s $55 million deal with Rams
· Yahoo Sports
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford signed a one-year, $55 million extension on Thursday, tying him to the franchise through the 2027 NFL season.
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With the deal done and dusted, here are three major takeaways from the move.
Puka Nacua's got next
With Stafford's contract in the books, the Rams will be able to start chipping away at their other extensions that need to be taken care of. The player who is likely due for his big deal is Puka Nacua. Unlike some of the other players who are set to be free agents after this season, Nacua is a critical need, a young player, and a league-leading producer.
While Nacua may have to prove his reliability after having a multitude of off-field issues, his play is undeniably great and the franchise has made no indication that they wish to part ways after 2026. With rising receiver rates, Nacua's got next.
Rams avoid a contract dispute for the next two seasons
The Rams have been operating on a year-to-year basis with Stafford, and while he may be under contract, both parties would have to meet every offseason to negotiate guaranteed money. While the Rams did not disclose how much guaranteed money Stafford will receive, the fact that they got the deal done at this price point will mean a smooth transition for this offseason and the next, as Stafford is among the NFL's top earners regardless.
Only Dak Prescott has a higher annual average value to Stafford. Stafford's pay in 2027 could balloon up to $60 million, which would match Prescott.
Ty Simpson foots the bill
Regardless of what happens this offseason, if Stafford returns for 2027, he will be one of the NFL's top earners. On top of that, as mentioned, the Rams have a bunch of stars that are set to hit free agency after this season. After already shelling out hundreds of millions this offseason on their secondary, the budget will begin to get tighter.
To counter, the Rams will have to reduce cap hits over the next two seasons. The good news is that the Rams have enough space for this year and even with higher cap hits down the road, Simpson's prorated rookie contract should help the numbers fit, especially with a cap that has jumped tens of millions over the last few years.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Matthew Stafford contract: 3 takeaways from Rams QB’s $55M deal