New Rams QB Matthew Stafford Already Outperforming Jared Goff

The Los Angeles Rams and new quarterback Matthew Stafford appear to already be in sync.

After hosting their first official practice this week, head coach Sean McVay had some positive reviews from Stafford's first practice at the new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

During an interview with the Rams discussing OTAs and working with his new quarterback, McVay said the following: “It looked good … I think we’re in the early phases of it, but certainly the way he’s handled things up to this point, been very pleased." The head coach added, “He’s a joy to be around every single day, the consistency that he comes into work with is definitely something that, he makes it really fun. And I know been pleased with what he’s done up to this point.”

General manager Les Snead and the Rams acquired Stafford from the Detroit Lions this offseason by trading starting quarterback Jared Goff, their 2021 third-round pick, 2022 first-rounder, and 2023 first-rounder.

Known for their laissez-faire dealings with first-round picks, the Rams' ambition to pursue Stafford, even with previous success from Goff despite a recent slump in production, shows the team's acknowledgment of a Super Bowl window beginning to close. After acquiring CB Jalen Ramsey and extending key defensive talent to expensive long-term contracts, Snead and the Rams are not expecting draft/trade capital in the near future, putting them in win-now mode.

After losing defensive coordinator Brandon Staley — whose top ranked defense in the league largely carried the Rams during Goff's inconsistencies — the Rams' return to an offense-first approach may be heading in the right direction with the acquisition of Stafford.

The receiving corps still boasts a solid group including Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, and integrating rookie Tutu Atwell as a dynamic wide receiver ready for any formation.

Also expecting sophomore running back Cam Akers to make the leap into a 3-down, Pro Bowl-type running back will benefit Stafford — which should be a big improvement over the Zach Zenner/J.D. McKissic days in Detroit.

With the Seahawks in a bit of a Cold War with Russell Wilson, Kliff Kingsbury still working to develop a rapid offense in Arizona, and San Francisco 49ers teetering between their rookie quarterback and franchise QB contract tied with Jimmy Garoppolo, the Rams have a way to lock up the NFC West this year and prepare for Tom Brady's Buccaneers before the postseason.

After Drew Brees' retirement from the New Orleans Saints and Aaron Rodgers' hiatus from the Packers, the Los Angeles Rams have a clear shot at reaching the NFC Championship and a return to the Super Bowl since their 2019 loss to Brady and the Patriots.

The Rams are set to host their first open practice at the new stadium on June 10.