Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford Shuts Down Latest Retirement Rumors
After 15 years in the NFL, it's fair to wonder if Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is nearing the end of his career.
The first overall pick in 2009, Stafford is in his age-35 season and has dealt with multiple recent injuries, including a UCL sprain that he's currently recovering from. He also has very little left to prove in the NFL, as he's already won a Super Bowl and has put up great passing numbers throughout his career.
However, the Rams star isn't planning on retiring any time soon. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Friday, Stafford reaffirmed his love for the game and his desire to keep playing.
Stafford drops back for a pass.
© Jayne Kamin-Oncea, USA TODAY
"I don't think I'll go until the wheels completely fall off, they're wobbling a little bit right now as we speak" Stafford said. "I love playing this game. I love competing, I love being in the locker room with the guys. I'll never get that again, so I want to make sure I get as many opportunities to do that as I can. I love this team, I love the city, it's been a blast. Obviously had a bunch of success in our first year, and trying to duplicate that to either this year, next year, whenever it is. But I enjoy playing too much to hang it up."
Stafford shared that while he had conversations with his wife after last season, which ended prematurely due to a spinal cord injury, he is satisfied with his decision to keep playing.
In regards to his current thumb injury, Stafford says he's progressing well and with the Rams on their bye week, it seems that he will be back sooner rather than later.
The Super Bowl-winning quarterback is still playing at a high level even as he approaches his 36th birthday, and Rams fans hope he can continue doing so until whenever he decides to call it quits.
