Matthew Stafford is officially returning for the 2026 season, signing a one-year extension with the Los Angeles Rams worth up to $55 million. The reigning NFL MVP in passing yards and touchdowns made the move official this week.
FOX Sports' Colin Cowherd says the Rams' strong recent draft classes are what made this deal possible-allowing them to pay Stafford while keeping their defense intact.
"The Rams can do that and pay that because they’ve drafted so well," Cowherd said on The Herd. "They're trying to master two timelines: Win a Super Bowl now and next year, and have their QB in place without a bidding war."
Adding to the intrigue: Los Angeles shocked the NFL by drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round. Many projected a receiver or tight end. But Cowherd and other analysts see Simpson as the long-term heir, learning behind Stafford.
Simpson led Alabama to the College Football Playoff, falling to eventual champion Indiana in the quarterfinals. Now he'll prepare to take over when Stafford retires.
The Rams open the 2026 season on September 10 in Melbourne, Australia-the first NFL regular season game Down Under-against the San Francisco 49ers.
With Stafford back and a loaded roster, Los Angeles is an early Super Bowl favorite.