Matthew Stafford, the veteran quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams, is reportedly in line for a contract extension that could push his annual earnings into the $50 million range. If this happens, Stafford would join an elite group of NFL quarterbacks making $50 million or more per season—a club currently headlined by stars like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson.

Stafford’s Case for a Massive Deal

Stafford is still one of the league’s top quarterbacks, even at 36 years old. After leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season, he has continued to perform at a high level when healthy. Despite battling injuries in recent years, Stafford threw for over 3,900 yards and 24 touchdowns in the 2023 season, demonstrating that he remains a franchise-caliber player.

The quarterback market has also exploded in recent years. When Stafford signed his four-year, $160 million extension in 2022, it seemed like a massive deal. But since then, the market has skyrocketed. Players like Burrow ($55 million per year), Justin Herbert ($52.5 million), and Jackson ($52 million) have reset the standard for elite quarterbacks. Given Stafford’s pedigree and the Rams’ continued success, it makes sense that he would command a similar figure.

The Rams’ Dilemma

The Rams have a difficult decision ahead. Stafford is still playing at a high level, but he’s also approaching the later stages of his career. Paying him $50 million per year would likely require restructuring contracts and making tough roster decisions. However, Los Angeles remains in win-now mode with stars like Cooper Kupp and Aaron Donald still on the roster, making it essential to keep a high-level quarterback in place.

Additionally, the quarterback landscape offers few immediate alternatives. While the Rams could look to the draft in the future, Stafford gives them their best chance to compete right now. Extending his contract could help them manage cap space while ensuring stability at the most important position in football.

The Future of the $50 Million Club

If Stafford secures a $50 million annual salary, it will further normalize the trend of elite quarterbacks commanding massive paydays. With rising salary caps and the increasing importance of top-tier quarterback play, it’s likely that more passers will join this exclusive club in the coming years. For Stafford, a new deal would solidify his place among the league’s highest-paid stars while keeping the Rams in contention for another championship.