Summary of "The Dan Patrick Show" Episode: Is Matthew Stafford Really Leaving LA?

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Dan Patrick Show
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
• Episode Title: Is Matthew Stafford Really Leaving LA?
• Release Date: February 25, 2025

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, hosts Justin Pennock and Chris Rose delve deep into the evolving landscape of the NFL, with a particular focus on quarterback Matthew Stafford's potential departure from the Los Angeles Rams. The discussion spans contract negotiations, team strategies, and implications for the broader league.

1. Matthew Stafford's Contract Situation

The core of the conversation revolves around Matthew Stafford's current contract with the Rams and the rumors of him seeking a new deal.

• Current Negotiations: Justin brings up reports from Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, highlighting that Stafford's agent is in talks with other teams while also negotiating with the Rams for a possible financial agreement.

• Stafford's Financial Demands: Chris analyzes the complexities of Stafford's contract, pointing out that while Stafford had previously agreed to a $40 million average annual value, he's now seeking approximately $50 million to align with top-tier QBs like Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson. He states, “[...] this is all Matthew Stafford wants more money. And I do think he deserves more money” (03:59).

• Rams' Dilemma: The Rams face a challenging decision as they balance Stafford's increased financial demands against their commitment to maintaining a competitive team window. Chris suggests that the Rams might need to increase guaranteed money in Stafford's contract, which could constrain their financial flexibility.

• Possible Outcomes: Both hosts speculate that if the Rams cannot meet Stafford's financial expectations, he might consider offers from the Giants, Raiders, or Steelers. Chris leans towards the Rams retaining Stafford but acknowledges the financial strain it may impose.

Notable Quote:

"If you give them $40 million guaranteed more, then you're probably going to have to add more years and adding bad money." — Chris Rose [07:48]

2. Impact on the NFL and Other Quarterbacks

The potential movement of Stafford could trigger a domino effect across the league, influencing other quarterbacks and team strategies.

• Domino Effect: Chris emphasizes that Stafford's situation could affect the contracts of other QBs like Kyler Murray and Deshaun Watson, stating, “there is a domino effect and it is waiting for Matthew Stafford to fall” (12:54).

• Other Quarterbacks: The discussion extends to other veteran QBs such as Kirk Cousins and Russell Wilson. Chris rates his interest in their futures, giving Cousins a low interest due to concerns about his physical limitations and Wilson a minimal interest based on his performance trends.

Notable Quote:

"There is a domino effect and it is waiting for Matthew Stafford to fall." — Chris Rose [12:54]

3. Miles Garrett's Trade Request

The hosts briefly touch upon Miles Garrett's trade request from the Cleveland Browns, analyzing its feasibility and potential impact.

• Trade Speculations: Justin inquires about the likelihood of Garrett being traded, to which Chris is skeptical, assigning a low interest level. He explains that despite Garrett's request, the Browns might prefer to retain him and build around their current roster.

Notable Quote:

"I think they're going to get back together. I think they'll figure it out." — Chris Rose [15:19]

4. Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings

The conversation shifts to Sam Darnold's situation with the Vikings, exploring the prospects of an extension amidst performance concerns.

• Extension Talks: Justin discusses the possibility of the Vikings offering Sam Darnold a front-loaded contract to secure him amidst uncertain performance metrics. Chris agrees, noting the importance of capitalizing on Darnold’s potential before his performance declines further.

Notable Quote:

"I would frontload it because I'm not so sure that you're going to get a better Sam Darnold than the one we saw in 2024." — Justin Pennock [19:07]

5. Bengals' Franchise Tag Decisions

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Cincinnati Bengals' potential decisions regarding key players like T. Higgins and Trey Hendrickson.

• T. Higgins Scenario: Chris expresses doubt over the Bengals re-franchising T. Higgins, suggesting that the front office might prefer to let him walk rather than allocate substantial cap space, despite his elite performance.

• Trey Hendrickson's Value: The hosts debate the value of extending Hendrickson, highlighting his status as one of the top edge rushers in the league. Chris advocates for a generous extension, labeling Hendrickson's potential deal as “criminal” (30:02).

Notable Quote:

“Trey Hendrickson is 11th in average annual value among all edge rushers in the NFL. [...] it’s criminal.” — Chris Rose [30:02]

6. Predictions and Future Outlook

In their concluding remarks, Justin and Chris offer their predictions for the NFL's offseason moves.

• Stafford's Future: Chris leans towards Stafford remaining with the Rams, considering the financial and personal factors involved. However, he remains open to other possibilities based on contract negotiations.

• Bengals' Strategy: They predict that the Bengals will prioritize extending Jamar Chase and potentially Trey Hendrickson while letting T. Higgins explore free agency.

• Combine Preview: The episode wraps up with a teaser for their upcoming combine preview, hinting at possible unexpected developments in player deals and retirements.

Notable Quote:

"Because of the lack of wow in the free agent class, that you'll see in the middle of March, there are going to be some extensions that perhaps you don't expect." — Justin Pennock [33:26]

Conclusion

This episode provides an in-depth analysis of Matthew Stafford's potential departure from the LA Rams, exploring the financial intricacies and broader implications for the NFL. Justin Pennock and Chris Rose offer expert insights into contract negotiations, player valuations, and team strategies, making it a must-listen for NFL enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing offseason dynamics.