Matthew Stafford and the Rams are inching closer to major contract extension originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

As offseason programs get underway, the Los Angeles Rams are staying vigilant. After several win-now moves made in the offseason, one significant position has been left untouched. Currently, reigning MVP Matthew Stafford has one year left on his contract, making him a free agent in the 2026 offseason. However, the two sides appear to be close to a longer-term extension.

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Matthew Stafford and the Rams have been making significant progress on a contract extension.

Matthew Stafford is coming off one of the best years of his NFL career. The quarterback posted a gaudy 4,707 pass yards and 46 touchdowns in the triumphant season. His heroic efforts earned him the first MVP trophy of his 17-year career. On the back of his high-flying season, Stafford and the Rams came a few plays too short against the eventual Super Bowl LX champion Seattle Seahawks.

Despite the loss in the NFC Championship, Stafford and the Rams remain confident that they can get the job done soon. Los Angeles made several moves in the offseason, including trading for cornerback Trent McDuffie, that solidify their status as prime Super Bowl favorites.

The 38-year-old quarterback still seemingly has a lot left in the tank, and the Rams also believe that to be true. With that in mind, the Rams would like to retain their superstar past the 2026 season. A potential contract extension would tack on an extra year for Stafford on the Rams and give the organization more time to assess their future plan at the position while remaining a contender.

Expect a deal to get done before the 2026 season kicks off in September.