LA Rams and Matthew Stafford get 'er done at last minute to avoid disaster

The LA Rams had a clearly defined plan throughout the offseason. While there was a restocking on defense all over, the offense had a clearer focus. Build an offense that can optimize the talents of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. And for the most part, that is exactly what the front office managed to do. Well, except for one minor detail.

Would QB Matthew Stafford show up to training camp? After all, although he is still under contract, 2024 is a pivotal year for both Stafford and the Rams football team. Stafford is under contract with the team through 2026. But his guaranteed money was slated to run out at the end of this season. Stafford is committed to playing for the team through 2026.

But he was looking for a bit more commitment from the team.

When HC Sean McVay stepped up to the podium for the first day of training camp, there was a bit of a delay in getting underway. Here is a video of McVay's press conference, and he was delighted to share the news.

The team and Stafford had reached agreement on modifying Stafford's contract in time. Stafford would not only show up, but would be a full participant at training camp.

While that may not seem like earth-shattering news to some, the team and quarterback managed to avoid a challenging impasse that would have meant starting training camp without Stafford lining up behind new center Steve Avila.

But here's here, and raring to go.

Was it money? Was it guaranteed money? As has been their past practice, McVay was extremely light on details. But ESPN NFL Insider quickly followed up with a bit more information about why Matthew Stafford may have held out of training camp, and what was sorted to persuade him not to do so:

Ultimately, the Rams dodged a trouble spot and have full go at their 2024 training camp. We know you are eager to hear about developments, so we will be sharing what we learn throughout the day and weeks ahead.

Thanks for reading.