Matthew Stafford’s latest challenge isn’t coming from a pass rush. It’s coming from a tax bill.
The Los Angeles Rams quarterback and his wife, Kelly, are reportedly dealing with a $534,453.67 state tax lien in California tied to the 2024 tax year. According to Nate Grant of Page Six, the California Franchise Tax Board filed the lien against Matthew and Kelly Stafford on July 14, 2026. The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk also confirmed to Page Six that the lien was still active at the time of publication.
The filing applies to property and property rights the couple currently owns, as well as anything they may acquire later. If the debt isn’t resolved, the amount could climb with added interest and fees. The filing itself does not accuse either Stafford of criminal wrongdoing.
The money issue arrives during a strong stretch for Los Angeles on the field. The Rams are 5-4 and riding a three-game winning streak after beating the Washington Commanders. Stafford has also remained a major figure in the team’s plans, having signed another extension with the Rams in 2026.
Page Six noted that Stafford has earned more than $500 million over the course of his NFL career. Even so, this latest lien has put a fresh spotlight on the couple’s finances, especially given their heavy real estate activity in California.
The Staffords bought a Hidden Hills mansion for $28.15 million in 2023 after previously purchasing the neighboring property for $10.5 million in 2022. Then in June 2026, they sold three other Hidden Hills homes for a combined $21.3 million.
Page Six also reported that the Staffords’ representatives did not immediately respond to its request for comment.
The off-field issue comes as the Rams try to navigate a tougher road on offense. Puka Nacua suffered MCL and PCL sprains, along with turf toe, against Washington, and head coach Sean McVay said the receiver could miss at least a month and likely land on injured reserve.
Nacua had 14 catches for 150 yards and a touchdown before exiting the 20-13 win. Davante Adams is also on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
Los Angeles’ next test comes against the Arizona Cardinals on November 15.
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