Analyst Raises Concerns About Rams QB Matthew Stafford Ahead of New Season

Stafford's age and the Rams' secondary depth are potential issues for the team in 2026.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 2:55am

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Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame has raised two key concerns about Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford heading into the 2026 NFL season. Verderame noted that Stafford is entering his age-38 season, raising questions about whether he can replicate his MVP-caliber performance from 2025. Additionally, Verderame pointed to the Rams' weak secondary, which could lose star safety Kam Curl in free agency, as another potential issue for the team.

Why it matters

The Rams are widely expected to be Super Bowl contenders in 2026 after a strong 2025 campaign, but Stafford's age and the team's secondary depth are potential vulnerabilities that could derail their title aspirations if not addressed.

The details

Stafford had a superb 2025 season, leading the Rams to the playoffs and being named NFL MVP. However, Verderame notes that Stafford is now entering his age-38 season, which raises questions about whether he can maintain that level of play. Additionally, the Rams' secondary is seen as a weak spot, and the potential loss of star safety Kam Curl in free agency could further weaken that unit.

  • Stafford is entering his age-38 season in 2026.

The players

Matthew Stafford

The Los Angeles Rams' starting quarterback, who was named NFL MVP in 2025.

Kam Curl

A star safety for the Los Angeles Rams who could leave the team in free agency.

Matt Verderame

A writer for Sports Illustrated who raised concerns about Stafford and the Rams' secondary.

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What they’re saying

“Matthew Stafford is entering his age-38 season, making it fair to wonder if he can replicate his MVP campaign.”

— Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated Writer

“The defense is also weak in the secondary and could lose star safety Kam Curl in free agency.”

— Matt Verderame, Sports Illustrated Writer

What’s next

The Rams will need to address Stafford's age and the secondary depth in the offseason if they want to remain Super Bowl contenders in 2026.

The takeaway

While the Rams are expected to be a top team in 2026, Stafford's age and the potential loss of Kam Curl in the secondary are legitimate concerns that could derail their Super Bowl aspirations if not properly addressed.