Matthew Stafford’s status as a top-tier quarterback appears to have faded in both the NFL and fantasy football circles. Nonetheless, the Los Angeles Rams surprised many by posting a strong 2025 season, primarily driven by their defense. Stafford’s performance and future outlook in the Matthew Stafford 2025 fantasy draft remain a topic of debate for fantasy managers looking for value picks.
In the 2025 playoffs, the Rams nearly upset the Philadelphia Eagles in the Divisional Round, holding Jalen Hurts and the Eagles to just 22 points for most of the game. However, a decisive 80-yard touchdown run by Saquon Barkley late in the fourth quarter sealed the Eagles’ victory. The Rams’ offensive struggles were evident, and had Stafford’s unit been more effective, the outcome could have swung in their favor, potentially altering Super Bowl LVIII’s narrative.
Despite these offensive inconsistencies, the Rams demonstrated confidence in Stafford by agreeing to a two-year, $84 million extension in the spring. This move reflects their belief that Stafford can still quarterback a competitive offense into his late 30s, but fantasy players remain cautiously optimistic when assessing his draft value for 2025.
Why Stafford’s Fantasy Stock Has Fallen but May Rebound
Following a below-par fantasy campaign in 2024, Matthew Stafford’s average draft position (ADP) has slipped significantly. Last year, he was selected as the 20th quarterback around pick 146, but in 2025, his ADP has dropped to QB23, currently going 163rd overall. This places him behind younger talents such as Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and rookie Cameron Ward.
While Stafford’s overall production dipped, he still managed to complete nearly 66 percent of his passes, averaging 235 yards per game, ranking 11th among NFL quarterbacks in 2024. The main issue was the Rams’ difficulty converting opportunities in the red zone, where they ranked 25th in touchdown percentage. Stafford’s 20 total touchdowns reflect this challenge.
With Matt LaFleur’s offense fully implemented after a year, and the addition of star wide receiver Davante Adams, the Rams’ attack is expected to improve. The combination of a stronger supporting cast and a favorable schedule—including several matchups against teams from the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC and NFC South—could lead to more successful drives and higher red zone efficiency in 2025.
The Potential Value of Waiting on Stafford in Fantasy Drafts
Matthew Stafford is unlikely to return to elite fantasy quarterback status or break into the top 10 rankings, but his current draft position suggests potential for significant upside. For fantasy players who prefer to wait on quarterbacks and build depth at other positions, Stafford could provide solid returns as a late-round pick. His chances improve with an offense that may find greater rhythm and efficiency as the season progresses.
Fantasy managers should monitor how Stafford’s chemistry with new teammates develops and whether the Rams’ offense can consistently convert red zone chances into touchdowns. If those improvements materialize, Stafford’s 2025 fantasy draft value might far surpass current expectations.