If you’ve been paying any attention to the NFL lately, you know the vibe in Los Angeles is high-stakes and high-octane. But let’s cut to the chase for anyone asking the big question: Matthew Stafford is the quarterback for the LA Rams.
He isn't just "the guy" anymore. At 37 years old, Stafford has somehow evolved into a more dangerous version of his younger self. We’re currently in January 2026, and while most players his age are looking for a comfortable TV gig or a golf membership, Stafford is fresh off a 2025 season where he basically threw the record books into a blender. Honestly, what he's doing right now shouldn't be physically possible given how many hits he's taken over 17 seasons.
The Matthew Stafford Renaissance
People love to talk about "age curves." They say quarterbacks hit a wall. Stafford apparently missed that memo. In the 2025 regular season, he led the league with 46 touchdown passes. That isn't just good; it's MVP-caliber. He finished with over 4,700 yards and a passer rating of 109.2.
If you watched the Wild Card game against the Carolina Panthers on January 10, you saw exactly why Sean McVay refuses to let this man retire. The Rams were down late. The season was on the line. Stafford just calmly marched them down the field and hit Colby Parkinson for a game-winning touchdown with 38 seconds left. No panic. Just the cold-blooded efficiency of a guy who has seen everything the league can throw at him.
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Who Is the Quarterback for the LA Rams? The Full Depth Chart
While Stafford is the undisputed leader, an NFL roster is a fragile thing. You’re always one awkward hit away from seeing the backup. The Rams have built a room that’s a weird mix of "been there, done that" and "total mystery."
1. Matthew Stafford (The Starter)
He’s the engine. He just earned his first-ever AP All-Pro First Team honors. Despite a nagging sprained index finger heading into the divisional round against Chicago, he’s playing. He’s tough. Maybe too tough for his own good sometimes.
2. Jimmy Garoppolo (The Insurance Policy)
Jimmy G is the quintessential journeyman now. He’s on his third team in four years, but in McVay’s system, he’s a luxury. He’s a guy who has started a Super Bowl. If Stafford’s back or finger acts up, Garoppolo is the one who steps in. He’s basically the high-end spare tire you hope you never have to use but feel glad you bought.
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3. Stetson Bennett IV (The Wildcard)
The former Georgia legend is still hanging around. He was a fourth-round pick in 2023. We haven’t seen much of him in real NFL action yet, and honestly, the Rams seem content to keep him in the "developmental" lane while the veterans handle the heavy lifting.
The Contract Drama Nobody Wants to Talk About
You can't talk about who is the quarterback for the LA Rams without mentioning the money. It's a lot of money. Stafford signed a massive extension a while back, but the team restructured it again in early 2025 to give him more guaranteed cash.
There was a moment there where people thought he might be traded. The Raiders were sniffing around. The Giants were interested. But the Rams doubled down. They know that without #9, this whole "win now" window slams shut. He’s scheduled to count for nearly $48.3 million against the cap in 2026 if he stays on the roster. That’s a massive pill to swallow, but when you’re throwing 46 touchdowns, the front office usually finds a way to make the math work.
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Why This Matters Right Now
As of today, January 18, 2026, the Rams are preparing for a massive Divisional Round clash against the Chicago Bears. It’s the veteran Stafford against the young star Caleb Williams. It's the ultimate "old guard vs. new school" matchup.
Stafford is dealing with a finger injury, and it's freezing in Chicago. This is where the legend grows or the season ends. Experts like Rob Maaddi have noted that Stafford is the only remaining QB in the NFC playoffs with a Super Bowl ring. That experience is the Rams' biggest edge.
Actionable Insights for Fans
- Watch the Injury Reports: If you're betting or just curious, keep an eye on Stafford's index finger. It’s his throwing hand. If that finger isn't 100%, expect more of a ground game with Kyren Williams and Blake Corum.
- The Davante Adams Factor: Don't forget the Rams added Davante Adams. The chemistry between Stafford and Adams has been the secret sauce of the 2025 season. When Stafford needs a first down, he isn't just looking for Puka Nacua anymore; he's looking for Adams.
- Draft Watch: Even if the Rams win it all, they’ll likely look for a "quarterback of the future" in the 2026 Draft. Stafford can’t play forever (probably).
If you’re trying to keep up with the team, just know that as long as Matthew Stafford is upright, the Rams are a threat. He’s redefined what a "late-career" peak looks like in the NFL.
Pro Tip: Follow the official Rams injury report leading up to kickoff in Chicago. If Jimmy Garoppolo starts taking first-team reps in practice, that's your signal that Stafford’s finger is a bigger deal than the team is letting on. Otherwise, expect #9 to be out there under center, looking to add another ring to his collection.