Why Matthew Stafford holds the power in contract issue with Rams ahead of camp

Rams coach Sean McVay talks with quarterback Matthew Stafford at the last day of OTA practice at Cal Lutheran University. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

The Rams were all smiles Tuesday as they completed offseason workouts on a beautiful final afternoon in Thousand Oaks.

Everyone connected with the organization appeared upbeat.

But make no mistake: A pall hangs over the Rams and their sunny disposition as they enter a break before reporting to training camp at Loyola Marymount on July 23.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford went through the voluntary offseason workout program at odds with the Rams over his contract. Coach Sean McVay gave no indication Tuesday that the team and the 16th-year pro are close to finding common ground.

Asked after the workout if there was progress with the Stafford situation, McVay demurred.

“If you had to guess,” he said, “what would you say my answer is going to be?”

Read more: Rams wave goodbye to their Cal Lutheran era, say hello to camp at LMU

Does he anticipate that Stafford will report for the start of training camp?

“That’s my expectation,” McVay said.

How will McVay’s summer go with the Stafford situation hanging over his head?

“I’m just going to think about this every second,” he said sarcastically, adding. “I think, like I said, we’ll keep things internally.

“I couldn’t be more impressed with the way that he’s handled it. The way he’s led — been here every single day doing his thing and that sure means a lot to me.”

But what does it mean for the Rams?

After unexpectedly making the playoffs last season, they are regarded as a potential Super Bowl contender. That projection only rings true, however, if Stafford is under center.

Stafford, 36, has three years remaining on the extension he signed in 2022 after leading the Rams to a Super Bowl title. He is due to carry a salary-cap number of $49.5 million this season, but does not have guaranteed salary in 2025 and 2026, according to Overthecap.com.

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/why-matthew-stafford-holds-power-231428058.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-06-11 23:14:28

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