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After the Los Angeles Rams' 28-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, 36-year-old quarterback Matthew Stafford said he needs to “take some time to think” about his future heading into the game. ESPN images Sarah Barshop.
At the end of his 16th season in the league, Stafford told reporters, “He definitely feels like” he has a lot of football left in him.
“I feel like I'm playing really good football,” added Stafford, per Barshop.
This season, Stafford gained 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions, posting a 64.7 quarterback rating.
Stafford has two years left on his contract with the Rams, though head coach Sean McVay declined to answer any questions about Stafford's future after the loss.
“Right now, I'm just appreciating the team,” McVay said, per Barshop.
Despite a poor 1-4 start to the season, the Rams bounced back, winning nine of their next ten games to secure the NFC West division title.
After Sunday's late comeback against the Eagles, McVay expressed his surprise at the result, saying he “didn't see it going any other way than we did when we won the game 29-28,” according to Barshop.
Senior receiver Puka Nacua repeated the same, showing his support for the veteran quarterback, who threw for 324 yards and two touchdowns in the loss.
“Everybody in this locker room, we believe in (Stafford) with every inch,” Nacua said, according to Barshop. “It's a great feeling to go out there and know that your quarterback is ready to put it all on the line and can make a play whenever it's asked of him. We all believe in No. 9.”
Whatever Stafford decides, he has the full support of his teammates and coach. While his decision remains tentative, he also talked about the next time he'll step onto the field after a game.
“I had a chance and I didn't do it,” said Stafford, of Barshop. “But I love to compete. I love to be in those moments. I sure as hell don't fear them. And I competed with my ass and it didn't go the way I wanted it to today. Next time I'm out there, follow the plan. .Let's do it again.”
