The Los Angeles Rams’ quarterback situation is getting attention after the team drafted a young QB, Ty Simpson, with the No. 13 pick. Now, one former Detroit Lions legend has stepped in with a clear message about Matthew Stafford and what comes next.

Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson, who played 9 seasons with the Lions, appeared on The Rich Eisen Show after the Draft Day 1. The former WR shared his thoughts and made it clear Stafford is not worried about the team planning.

“I don't think Matthew is stressing about that. I think Matthew understands how these things work. Obviously, there is life, there's football after Matthew Stafford, so you understand that this, the organization has to put themselves in a situation."

Stafford is coming off a strong 2025 season. He led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns, with a 109.2 rating and just 8 interceptions in 17 games. That run helped the Rams reach the NFC Championship Game. Even with the loss, the Rams' star QB won MVP, with 12 games without an interception.

Continuing his analysis, Johnson also pointed to Stafford’s role with a young quarterback.

”I think y'all were talking about Ty Simpson earlier on the screen, how many starts he had. I think that, if there's anybody that can help out with that, kind of curb and then give him a dump experience into him and help him, Matthew could be that guy.”

Johnson’s words matter because of his strong and highly regarded NFL career. He played for the Lions from 2007 to 2015 and made six Pro Bowls. His perspective provides unique insight into how the Rams might manage their veteran leader alongside a top prospect

Rams Stay Patient With Stafford While Planning Ahead

The Rams are trying to manage both the present and the future. Even after drafting a young quarterback, the focus is still on keeping their current leader in place.

According to Ian Rapoport on X, the Rams and Stafford are “deep in discussions” on a contract extension that could keep him with the team beyond next season.

The 2026 season is the final year of his current deal, where he carries a $48.3 million cap hit. After his MVP season, the 38-year-old still looks ready to keep going.

Rams head coach Sean McVay also made his stance clear that the selection of Simpson is not going to impact the team’s bond with Stafford.

"There were a lot of players that we liked, but when you do look at it, I think the thing you liked about the body of work is … let's make one thing clear, this is Matthew's team," McVay said, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

McVay also confirmed that Matthew Stafford was already aware of Simpson being drafted by the Rams. For now, both sides seem aligned. Stafford leads the team, while Simpson learns in the background as the Rams prepare for the future without rushing the change.

Do you think Simpson and Stafford can sync well?

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi