Matthew Stafford’s LA Future, the $40M Backup Plan, and a “Tush Push” Ban?!
Feb 26, 2025
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From the NFL Combine, the hosts dive into crucial offseason topics. They debate Matthew Stafford's uncertain future with the Rams and the implications of a potential 'tush push' ban. Kirk Cousins' hefty contract sparks a discussion on the high cost of backup quarterbacks amidst trade rumors. Concerns over the lack of elite talent in the upcoming NFL Draft add to the conversation, while Khalil Shakir's new deal with the Bills raises eyebrows about player contracts.
51:58
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Quick takeaways
Matthew Stafford's potential trade dealings hinge on balancing the Rams' financial limitations with his desire for a lucrative contract amid injury concerns.
The Packers' attempt to ban the 'tush push' play raises critical debates around player safety versus maintaining the integrity of traditional football strategies.
Deep dives
Matthew Stafford's Uncertain Future
Matthew Stafford's future with the Rams is a major discussion point, as the team weighs their options regarding his contract. Stafford has been granted permission to explore trade options, and the feedback he’s received suggests strong market interest, positioning him potentially among quarterbacks earning over $50 million annually. While both sides appear to be negotiating, there are underlying anxieties pertaining to Stafford's age and injury history, which complicate any deal. Ultimately, the Rams may have to find a balance between their financial constraints and Stafford's aspirations for a lucrative contract.
The Tush Push Debate
The Green Bay Packers have proposed banning the 'tush push' play due to concerns about player safety and the competitive advantage it offers, particularly to the Eagles. While some coaches, like the Bills' Sean McDermott, support the ban due to potential injury risks, others, like Ravens' John Harbaugh, argue that it could set a dangerous precedent by restricting all forms of pushing in football. The situation sparks a broader discussion on player safety versus the integrity of established plays in the game. Ultimately, skepticism prevails among many analysts about the proposal's chances of passing, with doubts about its necessity and effectiveness.
Kirk Cousins' Predicament
Kirk Cousins finds himself in a challenging situation as the Falcons are reportedly set to keep him as a high-priced backup. Atlanta’s management appears to be playing hardball, valuing Cousins at $40 million, leaving him with little leverage considering his no-trade clause. As the talks about potential trades unfold, there is tension due to Cousins' history of contract negotiations, raising questions about his willingness to be flexible. This unique standoff illustrates how financial commitments and personal egos may impede finding an agreeable solution for all involved.
The Lackluster 2025 Draft Class
This year’s NFL draft is being met with widespread skepticism, particularly regarding the caliber of top prospects available. Many analysts and team executives express doubts about the depth of blue-chip talent in the draft, with few names standing out in terms of undeniable NFL potential. Notably, teams are hesitant to commit major trades for older quarterbacks when the draft offers limited immediate value, as they may look for stronger rookie quarterbacks in upcoming years. The prevailing sentiment suggests that teams are gearing up for a cautious approach to the draft, focusing more on long-term strategy than immediate returns.
From Radio Row at the NFL Combine, The Ringer’s Nora Princiotti and Steven Ruiz sit down in-person to discuss five burning offseason topics: How Matthew Stafford fits into the Rams’ future plans, the Packers’ secret efforts to ban the “tush push,” the ongoing standoff between Kirk Cousins and the Falcons, pessimistic feelings surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft class, and Khalil Shakir’s underwhelming new deal with the Bills.
CHAPTERS:
Ad breaks (00:00)
Matthew Stafford’s future (01:02)
A “tush push” ban (12:41)
Kirk Cousins vs. the Falcons (18:52)
The weak 2025 NFL Draft (27:45)
Khalil Shakir’s new deal (37:38)
Hosts: Nora Princiotti and Steven Ruiz
Producer: Troy Farkas
Additional Production Support: Jake Loskutoff, Nikola Stanjevich and Daniel Comer