Kurt Warner remains a beloved figure in Los Angeles Rams franchise history, having won two NFL MVP awards and a Super Bowl with the franchise during its St. Louis days. However, the NFL Network analyst has expressed confusion over the current direction of the Rams as trade rumors swirl around quarterback Matthew Stafford, who led the team to a Super Bowl victory at the end of the 2021 season. The 37-year-old is still playing at a high level and has two years left on his four-year, $160 million contract.
As both sides consider a contract extension, the Rams have already announced their intention to trade star wide receiver Cooper Kupp, which has raised speculation that Stafford might be the next to go. Warner recently told TalkSport.com that he believes such a move would be a significant mistake. “If you want to win as a team, then you don’t get rid of guys like that,” Warner stated. “I think decisions like that hinge on whether you believe your team can remain competitive in the coming years. Matt is a top-five or top-seven quarterback in the league right now, regardless of where you rank him.”
After finishing the last season with a 10-7 record, Warner questioned the decision to move Stafford, suggesting the team is still capable of winning. He noted, “It seems they want to make a trade for Cooper. Do they think they’re out of contention? Looking at this team and what they accomplished this year, they pushed the [Philadelphia] Eagles to the edge with a chance to win. They have a fantastic young defense, and Puka Nacua has been remarkable. Matthew is playing at an extraordinary level, and I know he wants to keep playing for a few more years.” Warner concluded, “If I’m the Rams and I believe my window to win is right now, there’s no way I’d even consider moving him.”
