Matthew Stafford isn’t keeping Rams fans waiting this time.
Unlike last offseason, when his future felt like a question mark hanging over the franchise, Stafford made it clear at the NFL Honors: he’s coming back for 2026. And just like that, the Rams’ outlook shifts from uncertain to intriguing.
Let’s be real-Stafford’s return doesn’t just raise the floor for L.A., it keeps the ceiling intact. When he’s under center, the Rams are in the mix.
Without him? It’s a different story entirely.
That’s not just the sentiment in Southern California-it’s a perspective shared by those outside the Rams’ orbit too.
Take Denver Broncos insider Mike Klis, for example. In a conversation on February 3, Klis didn’t mince words when asked about the upcoming Rams-Broncos matchup.
“If he (Stafford) is there, the Rams win,” Klis said. “If he isn’t, the Broncos win.”
That’s a pretty strong endorsement of Stafford’s impact-and a telling one. Especially coming from someone who covers the opposing sideline. The statement was made before Stafford publicly confirmed his return, but now that the decision’s official, it’s clear: the Rams will roll into 2026 with their franchise quarterback leading the way.
And that makes a big difference when you look ahead to the Rams’ showdown with Denver.
The NFL hasn’t released the full 2026 schedule yet, but thanks to the league’s rotational formula, we already know the Rams are heading to the Mile High City. That means Stafford vs.
Bo Nix-veteran savvy against rising talent. And with both teams coming off conference championship appearances, this isn’t just another game on the calendar.
It’s a matchup with weight.
Back in 2022, the Rams and Broncos met on Christmas Day. That one featured Russell Wilson and a struggling Denver squad going up against the defending Super Bowl champs. Despite the Broncos’ issues that year, the game still landed in a prime-time slot, largely because of the star power and expectations surrounding both teams.
Fast forward to now, and the stakes feel even higher. Both franchises are trending upward, both have playoff aspirations, and both have quarterbacks who will define their respective seasons. It’s the kind of game the NFL loves to spotlight-and don’t be surprised if it gets the national treatment once again.
For the Rams, Stafford’s return means more than just continuity. It means leadership, stability, and a shot at another deep playoff run. For the Broncos, it means a tougher hill to climb.
And for fans? It means we’re getting a heavyweight clash with playoff implications-and maybe more-when these two teams finally meet.