Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams agreed Thursday on a one-year, $55 million extension that keeps the reigning MVP in Los Angeles through the 2027 season. The deal can rise to $60 million with incentives, and Stafford now carries $105 million remaining on his contract.

The Rams compounded their commitment by using the No. 13 pick on quarterback Ty Simpson, positioned as Stafford's eventual successor. That move suggests the front office views Stafford as the starter for at least the next two seasons. Stafford led the NFL last year with 4,707 passing yards, 46 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions.

Stafford, turning 39 on Feb. 7, had considered retirement but announced he would return for the 2026 season. His 39th birthday falls one week before the Super Bowl at SoFi Stadium, where he won a championship in 2021. Now the question is whether Stafford can sustain production into his late thirties for a Rams team that drafted his replacement.