QB swap: Stafford for Goff THE QUOTE
The Lions are trading quarterback Matthew Stafford to the Rams in exchange for quarterback Jared Goff, two future first-round draft picks and a third-round pick, according to reports Saturday night.
The deal will not become official until the start of the new league year March 17. ESPN first reported the swap, which will include the Rams’ first-round picks in 2022 and 2023 along with their thirdround pick this year.
The blockbuster trade of two former No. 1 overall draft picks will provide a fresh start for two durable starting quarterbacks who probably need a change of scenery.
Stafford, above, asked to be traded shortly after the season ended with the Lions’ third straight campaign with at least 10 losses. He has been one of the NFL’s most prolific passers during his 12-year career spent entirely with the Lions, but has never won a playoff game.
Meanwhile, the Rams’ coaching staff and front office have publicly expressed a clear loss of confidence in Goff in recent weeks, even after the team earned its third playoff berth and posted its fourth straight winning record during Goff ’s four years under coach Sean McVay. Goff also led the Rams to the Super Bowl after the 2018 season.
Stafford, who turns 33 next week, has two years left on a five-year, $135 million contract. After a career spent attempting to escape from the weight of the Lions’ lamentable history, the franchise leader in almost every statistical passing category is headed to California to join McVay’s consistent winner.
Goff, 26, is about to start a four-year, $134 million contract with $110 million guaranteed. Just like longtime teammate Todd Gurley, he’s leaving the Rams before his huge contract extension even begins.
The Lions reportedly had several offers for Stafford, and they all included first-round picks. Stafford was made aware of the teams that wanted to acquire him, and the Rams were one of the franchises he was excited about joining.
“Coach Reid does an unbelievable job of relating to everybody and getting the best out of everybody. And he’s the ultimate leader.”
— Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on coach Andy Reid