Despite having the film, stats, and accolades, Rams QB Matthew Stafford is rarely regarded as a top-five NFL quarterback so what is the bias against him?

The Los Angeles Rams are preparing to make a big change this offseason, putting veteran wideout Cooper Kupp on the trade block despite the team winning the NFC West and reaching the divisional round in the playoffs.

Matthew Stafford said recently that he would "take some time" to decide on his NFL future, fresh off a 16th season at age 36. Less than two weeks later, the Los Angeles Rams quarterback appears to have made his decision,

While the Rams and star QB Matthew Stafford work on a deal, the idea of a trade could come about if negotiations break down. The Rams simply can not do that.

Stafford, 36, said after the Rams’ season ended that he still feels like he can play at a high level, but the possibility of retirement looms large. He’ll be 37 in February, has already won a Super Bowl and though he’s still playing well, it wouldn’t surprise anyone if he chose to retire this offseason.

The Los Angeles Rams can plan accordingly after receiving a decision from quarterback Matthew Stafford about playing next season.

Stafford revised his contract with the Rams ahead of last season -- in a rather lengthy process -- and will now carry a $49.6 million cap number into the 2025 campaign. L.A. can save $27 million by trading him in a post-June 1 move, and $23 million as a post-June 1 cut, per Over The Cap.

It would be unlike the Los Angeles Rams to trade their prime assets for draft capital. As long as they feature Sean McVay at head coach and Les Snead as general

“My understanding is Matthew Stafford does in fact plan to play next season,” NFL insider Ian Rapoport said. “This is essentially what he communicated to the Rams. Wanted to take some time off, but basically told them, ‘I feel good, I don't see why I wouldn't play.'”