As the Rams prepare to face the 49ers in Thursday Night Football, one man who's set to play a key role in proceedings in Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. At 36 years old he's a proper NFL veteran. Let's take a moment to unpack his career and learn more about his life outside of the game.
Who is Matthew Stafford?
Matthew Stafford is a seasoned NFL quarterback who has been at the helm of two franchises: the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Rams. Born on 7 February 1988, in Tampa, Florida, Stafford's football ability was obvious from a young age as he led Highland Park High School in Dallas, Texas, to a state championship. A highly touted recruit, he played college football at the University of Georgia, where his arm strength and composure earned him recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.
Detroit Lions legend
Stafford was selected as the first overall pick by the Detroit Lions in the 2009 NFL Draft, a decision that would define the next decade of the franchise. He became the face of the Lions, turning them into playoff contenders during his tenure. Known for his toughness and clutch play, Stafford led the team to three playoff appearances (2011, 2014, and 2016). He became the fastest player in NFL history to reach 40,000 passing yards, cementing his status as one of the league’s most prolific passers.
Move to LA Rams
In 2021, Stafford was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in a blockbuster deal that sent Jared Goff and draft picks to Detroit. The move immediately paid dividends, as Stafford led the Rams to victory in Super Bowl LVI, defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 23-20. His leadership and ability to make big throws under pressure were instrumental in securing the franchise’s second-ever Lombardi Trophy.
Key records and stats
- Career Passing Yards: Over 59,350 and counting, placing him in the top ten all-time passers in the NFL.
- Fourth-Quarter Comebacks: Stafford is renowned for his ability to perform under pressure, with numerous game-winning drives in his career.
- NFL Accolades: Pro Bowl selection (2014) and the fastest player to reach 40,000, and 50,000 passing yards in NFL history.
Charity work
Off the field, Stafford has been deeply involved in philanthropy. Alongside his wife, Kelly, he has contributed millions of dollars to various causes, including funding educational programs, supporting children with brain injuries, and donating to COVID-19 relief efforts. Their most notable initiative is the “Stafford Family Foundation,” which focuses on providing opportunities for disadvantaged youth.
Netflix and popular media
Stafford’s compelling journey has made him a fascinating subject for football fans. In 2023, he was featured prominently in Netflix’s docuseries Quarterback, which offered an in-depth look at the lives of NFL quarterbacks during the season. The series highlighted Stafford’s resilience, preparation, and dedication to his craft, giving viewers a glimpse into the challenges of being a veteran NFL signal-caller.
