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Matthew Stafford Makes Surprising Decision As Retirement Speculation Intensifies

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This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Matthew Stafford.
Matthew Stafford. Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Rams star Matthew Stafford fell short of playing his second Super Bowl in 2025. The Seattle Seahawks ended the Rams’ season in the NFC championship game to advance to the championship duel against the New England Patriots.

Stafford’s NFL future was a major topic in the league during the season. Now that the campaign is over, the speculation resurfaced stronger than before. Stafford has earned a lot of love and respect not only for his talent on the field, but for his off-field gestures, which were more visible after the Rams’ loss.

As he took his time to ponder his future, Stafford made a surprising decision after the NFC championship game.

Matthew Stafford Won’t Participate In 2026 Pro Bowl Games

Sep 21, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) looks for a receiver during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

On Friday, Philadelphia Eagles reporter Jeff McLane shared that quarterback Jalen Hurts was named to the Pro Bowl Games. Olivia Reiner of The Philadelphia Inquirer added that Hurts will replace Matthew Stafford on the NFC roster.

The original report and the follow-ups didn’t explain why Stafford won’t participate in the Pro Bowl Games. His absence fueled the rumors that fans have seen the last of the soon-to-be 38-year-old quarterback. As he takes time away from the game, Stafford can earn the most coveted award in the NFL.

He is an MVP finalist this season after going 388 of 597 for 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns with eight interceptions.

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