Retirement: QB Matthew Stafford’s Wife, Kelly, Opens Up About His Retirement Decision with the Los Angeles Rams
Retirement: QB Matthew Stafford’s Wife, Kelly, Opens Up About His Retirement Decision with the Los Angeles Rams

As speculation about Matthew Stafford’s future with the Los Angeles Rams continues to swirl, his wife, Kelly Stafford, is giving fans a glimpse into the quarterback’s decision-making process regarding retirement. In a candid conversation, Kelly recently opened up about how her husband is weighing his options and the factors that are influencing his potential exit from the NFL.
Matthew Stafford, 35, has had a remarkable career in the NFL, spending 12 seasons with the Detroit Lions before being traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. With the Rams, he led the team to a Super Bowl victory in the 2021-2022 season, marking the peak of his career. However, following an injury-riddled 2023 season and the team’s struggles on the field, questions about whether Stafford would retire have become a significant topic of discussion.
In her conversation, Kelly shared that the decision is not an easy one for her husband, as it involves weighing numerous personal and professional considerations. “Matt loves football, and this isn’t a decision he’s making lightly. There are so many factors that go into it, from his health to his family and the kind of impact he still feels he can have on the game,” she explained.
Stafford has battled through multiple injuries over the years, including a back injury that sidelined him for a period in the 2022 season and a lingering neck issue during the 2023 season. His physical condition has been a key factor in his contemplation of retirement, with doctors advising him on how much longer he can physically endure the rigorous demands of playing in the NFL.
Despite the physical toll, Kelly emphasized that Stafford’s passion for the game remains strong. “He’s not just thinking about what his body can do right now; he’s thinking about the kind of legacy he wants to leave behind,” she said. “He’s always wanted to be remembered as a player who did everything for his team, and he’s still evaluating whether he can give that to the Rams and the sport.”
On top of the physical considerations, Kelly also noted the importance of family in the decision-making process. The Staffords have four young children, and Kelly admitted that their family dynamic has shifted in recent years. “Our kids are at an age where they’re more involved in sports and activities, and Matt has said how much he values being present for them. His decision will ultimately reflect what’s best for our family,” she revealed.
Kelly also reflected on the impact of Stafford’s leadership in the locker room and on the Rams’ young quarterbacks. “Matt has always been someone who invests in the people around him. His leadership extends beyond just his play on the field, and the younger quarterbacks look up to him,” she said. “That’s something he takes great pride in, and it weighs into his decision too.”
While Kelly admitted that she and her husband have not reached a final decision yet, she expressed confidence that whatever path Stafford chooses, it will be the right one for him and his family. “It’s not an easy decision, but Matt has always been someone who thinks things through thoroughly. We’ll support him no matter what.”
For now, Rams fans will continue to hold their breath, eagerly awaiting an official announcement from Stafford on his future with the team. Whether he chooses to retire or return for another season, his legacy as one of the NFL’s most respected quarterbacks seems secure.
As Kelly Stafford puts it, “At the end of the day, it’s about making the right choice for Matt and our family. We’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”