Stafford said after the game and in the days immediately after the loss that he would take time before making his decision. Rams’ Matthew Stafford Gets Message From FranchiseThe Rams will learn of Stafford’s final decision soon enough. The Rams included a highlight reel of Stafford’s season, which saw him throw the longest touchdown pass of his career. Stafford remains under contract for 2026, and his $40 million salary for 2026 will become guaranteed on March 15, putting a timeline on a decision from him for the Rams about retirement. All of the Rams’ offseason plans will be based on whether or not Stafford is planning to return in 2026, though.