Sean McVay refused to entertain the notion that Sunday's playoff defeat to Seattle could mark the end of Matthew Stafford's career, bristling at the question itself.

When asked if he expected the veteran quarterback to return for the 2026 season, McVay shot back: "I mean, yeah, if he still wants to play. I mean, what the hell kind of question is that?"

The Rams head coach struck a different tone moments later when pressed on whether he actually knew Stafford's intentions. "You have to ask him," McVay said. "We've been totally present. He's the MVP of the league, and if he's not, and I've got respect for everybody else, but this guy played at a level that's just different."

Stafford Stays Cagey

Stafford himself offered no clarity on what comes next. When asked immediately after the loss whether he was considering retirement, the 37-year-old—who turns 38 in early February—deflected entirely.

"I can't generalize six months of my life ten minutes after a loss. So, I appreciate the guys in this locker room. It was a whole hell of a lot, everybody that helped me and helped our team be as successful as we were this year. That's all I'll answer for you."

However, NFL Media reported Sunday that Stafford has told people close to him he currently plans to play again in 2026. Sources also indicated the quarterback believes he has plenty of football left in the tank.

A Strong Case for the Payday

Stafford made a compelling argument for top-tier compensation this season. He led the NFL in passing yards (4,707) and passing touchdowns (47), steering the Rams to the NFC Championship Game before their loss to Seattle.

His stellar play has positioned him as a likely first-time MVP winner. He was named first-team All-Pro in January and was the MVP favorite when regular-season voting closed.

His contract situation demands resolution. Stafford's current deal with Los Angeles carries just one year remaining with a built-in out, making a new agreement nearly inevitable if he returns.

The 2025 season exposed the fragility of his tenure in LA. Last offseason, he publicly explored options with the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders before accepting a restructured contract to stay put. A repeat of that uncertainty looms if negotiations stall.

In Sunday's loss, Stafford delivered one of his finest efforts regardless of what the future holds: 374 passing yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions.