The Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford may be the most widely ranked player at the position in the league. There is no strong consensus for where he belongs in rankings. On a recent episode of the Rams Skinny Podcast, hosts, Ryan Dyrud and Ryan Anderson discussed where they rank Stafford. Here was their top 5 ranking;
- Patrick Mahomes
- Josh Allen
- Lamar Jackson
- Matthew Stafford
- Justin Herbert
Why Matthew Stafford Is Ranked 4th According To The Rams Skinny
- Elite Arm Talent: Stafford possesses one of the strongest arms in the league, allowing him to make incredible throws.
- Maturity: Stafford found another level to his game last year, showing a willingness to learn and adjust based on the team around him. He didn’t play hero ball last year, something that plagued him throughout his career.
- Quick Chemistry: In two instances, Stafford established chemistry with Rams receivers in an incredibly short term. In his first season with the team, he helped Cooper Kupp win the triple crown and in his first season with Puka Nacua, Nacua broke multiple rookie receiving records.
- Clutch Performances: Stafford has a history of leading comebacks and performing well in high-pressure situations.
- Super Bowl Champion: Winning the Super Bowl LVI with the Rams solidified his place among the NFL’s elite. There are only three active starting quarterbacks in the league right now with a ring, Mahomes, Aaron Rodgers, and Stafford. Both Joe Flacco and Russell Wilson have Super Bowl rings but aren’t guaranteed a starting role in 2024.
While it is difficult for Stafford to compete with the three QBs ahead of him in the rankings due to what they bring to the game once outside the pocket, Stafford continues to prove why he is one of the best pocket passers in the league.
The Rams have invested heavily in the offensive line, which should only help Stafford. Last season, he was pressured 100 times, 18th most in the NFL. He had 2.5 seconds to throw, which was 11th. If these improve as they should Stafford will have even more success than he did last season.
Perhaps the only thing holding him back from an MVP will be Sean McVay leaning into the run in an unprecedented fashion. But knowing McVay, there will be plenty of opportunity to rack up passing stats.
