Sean McVay Says He's In a Better Mood This Offseason, And We All Know Why
Rams head coach Sean McVay felt the need to clarify a statement he made on Thursday. When asked about his thoughts on new starting quarterback Matthew Stafford, his response included how his mood seems better this offseason.
"I think I've been very happy," McVay said with a smile, via ESPN. "Everybody says, 'Man, you just seem like you're in a better mood this offseason,' and I said, 'You're damn right I am.'"
That, to me, reads like a guy who is speaking with candor.
There is a night and day difference between the tools and overall success of Stafford and McVay's former quarterback Jared Goff. At this point, there's really no reason to hide from that, especially since the Rams just parted with two first-round picks and Goff to acquire Stafford.
Still, McVay felt the need to backtrack on his comments. Only hours later after the Rams had completed their final mandatory minicamp practice, McVay played the blame game. Apparently, his earlier comment was the media's fault -- it wasn't intended to be a shot at Goff.
“I hate that I even have to say this, but I think I made a comment that was definitely taken out of context,” McVay said, via Lindsey Thiry. “I am very excited. I am in a good mood because of the confidence that I have in this team. But by no means is that a slight to anybody, you know, like Jared, who has done a phenomenal job for the last four years here.
"I hated that I have to address that, but I did think, out of respect for him and all the good things that he’s done, . I am in a good mood, but that doesn’t mean it’s not because we’re working together or because of just Stafford exclusively. There’s a lot of good things going on that I feel really good about, and I’m confident about, so don’t twist my words when I didn’t say that.”
Once again, this is a coach who was willing to part with TWO first-round draft picks in order to exchange a 26-year-old Goff for 33-year-old Stafford. The message was already loud and clear. To part with that sort of draft capital for an older quarterback, you better be in a much better mood this offseason.
Own it.
Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.