It all began back in 2009 when, with the first overall pick in that year’s Draft, the Detroit Lions selected Matthew Stafford as their new quarterback. The former University of Georgia star quickly became a key figure in the NFL-and especially for the Lions franchise-despite the team’s historically poor performance.
Throughout his impressive career, Stafford has racked up 59,809 passing yards, earned two Pro Bowl selections, and won a Super Bowl ring with the Los Angeles Rams in a victory over Joe Burrow’s Cincinnati Bengals.
Stafford is the Highest-Earning Quarterback in NFL History
At the start of free agency, the Los Angeles Rams restructured Stafford’s contract, and the financial outcome has been staggering. Including guaranteed money through 2025, Stafford’s career earnings have reached a jaw-dropping $391,313,912, according to Spotrac.
Now in his 16th NFL season-and on a clear path to the Hall of Fame-Stafford has officially surpassed none other than Tom Brady in career earnings. The seven-time Super Bowl champion earned $332.9 million over a 23-year career. Stafford has also out-earned Aaron Rodgers, who is estimated to have made $381.6 million over 18 seasons (and counting).
Stafford Has Shined with the Rams
After a long stint with the Lions-where team success was elusive, though his individual performance consistently stood out-Stafford signed with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. Under head coach Sean McVay, he has been nothing short of spectacular.
Since joining the Rams, Stafford has thrown for 14,700 yards and 95 touchdowns across four seasons. He’s been a regular in the playoffs, with the crowning achievement being the Rams’ Super Bowl victory in 2021. His current record with the team stands at 34 wins and 23 losses.
On top of that, Stafford is clearly headed toward the Hall of Fame. The Georgia alum is one of just eight quarterbacks in NFL history to throw for over 5,000 yards in a single season-a testament to his elite status in the game.
Read the full article here
