Matthew Stafford’s Surprising Next Move: Could ESPN Be His True Final Destination?

The chatter around Matthew Stafford’s next chapter is heating up, and if whispers hold any weight, ESPN’s got their eye on the seasoned quarterback once he wraps up his stint with the Rams and steps away from the NFL spotlight. Now, nobody’s nailed down what that TV role might look like — analyst? Commentator? Something fresh? — but the mere fact that options are rolling in? That’s a win in itself. Stafford’s got the chops: sharp insights, polished delivery, and a genuine love for football that makes him a natural fit for the broadcast booth. Of course, whether he wants to dive into that world or simply savor time with family while eyeing retirement is his call. But one thing’s clear — after all the grit and glory on the field, the door to a new kind of spotlight is wide open. LEARN MORE

It is being reported by Andrew Marchand and the Athletic that ESPN may be looking at Matthew Stafford for some type of TV role after his time is done with the Los Angeles Rams and the NFL. Though it is unclear what specific job/role Stafford could be offered, it’s nice to have options on the table.

As I like to say, “The best thing to have is options.”

Whether Stafford calls it a career after 2026, or the year after, or whenever, the potential Hall of Fame quarterback should be “in demand” when it comes to a future in television.

Now, is TV what Stafford wants to do? He’s already been a broadcast guest in the past, that doesn’t mean that he’d want a long-term broadcasting job, but Stafford is well spoken, he knows the game of football, he’s respectful, he has the traits that could make him excel as an analyst.

However, Stafford doesn’t have to do anything at this stage in his life other than be there for his family and friends. He doesn’t need to play football in 2026, but he’s choosing to. He doesn’t need a TV job, but he might choose one.

Though it appears ESPN would really like Stafford to consider joining them eventually, one thing is for sure, whether Stafford hangs around the game after he retires or not, his impact is already made. Stafford just needs to get out of the league as healthy as possible and enjoy life as he approaches his 40’s and beyond.

My guess is Stafford will be in high demand for whatever he wants to do, and whenever he wants to work (if he wants to work) when his time as a player officially comes to its end. Any other NFL wins, or jobs outside the NFL is really just more cherries on top of an already full cake.