Former Los Angeles Rams offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth believes Matthew Stafford should return for another NFL season after what he described as an MVP-level year.
Andrew Whitworth discussed Matthew Stafford’s future with the Los Angeles Rams following the quarterback’s performance during the most recent NFL season and postseason run.
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Whitworth, who won a Super Bowl with Stafford and the Rams in 2021, focused on Stafford’s level of play, personal priorities, and mindset as questions continue about the quarterback’s next step.
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Andrew Whitworth praises Matthew Stafford season
Speaking on the Rich Eisen Show, Andrew Whitworth began by explaining why he believes Matthew Stafford’s latest campaign should be viewed among the strongest of his career.
Whitworth then addressed Stafford’s perspective as the season came to an end. He also referenced the physical challenges Stafford dealt with earlier in the season.
“He’s had an unbelievable year. I thought it’s been a really cool year to watch a guy who I think is going to be our MVP in a week’s time. I just believe it.“
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“The season Matthew Stafford had, he without question played as an MVP and even showed it more in these playoffs.”
“Here’s the reality. For him, there are a lot of things in his life that are really important. Those girls and Kelly, most importantly, their family. Right now, he’s still in that stage of disappointment from everything he put into this year.”
“Let’s not forget, Rich, it wasn’t just last August that he was sitting around with a back where he couldn’t even get out there and practice with his team. He was disappointed and frustrated. Then he turns the corner and has an MVP season.”
Whitworth compares Stafford mindset to Wolverine
Andrew Whitworth compared the emotional recovery process of elite NFL players to a well-known fictional character.
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“I always say this, Rich, if you were a fan of the X-Men, these guys are like Wolverine. They get injured, there’s some lash out and frustration, but they heal.”
Whitworth explained how perspective often changes once the immediate disappointment fades. He added that reflection can shape offseason decisions for veteran players.
“Once they heal and feel like that superhero again, everything’s fine. Right now, they’ve got some wounds.
“There’s a lot of internal screaming and frustration. Then two weeks from now they’ll sit on the couch and say, ‘We were one play, fourth and four, from being in the Super Bowl. I want to do that again.’”
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“I don’t know what Matthew will decide. I think every year it’s different as you get older. But I’m excited to see what he does. Based on how he played this year, I think he should go back out there and give it another try.”
“He’s had success in a Super Bowl already. If he gets that opportunity again, next year could be a special one for the Rams.”
Whitworth pointed to Stafford’s previous championship experience as a reason for optimism. Hopefully, Stafford makes the decision that is best for his health and his family, but this is a story that is likely to have many twists and turns.
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