As Matthew Stafford embarks on his 16th NFL season, he continues to command respect and admiration across the league. One of his biggest admirers is Caleb Williams, who lauds Stafford as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, placing him alongside Aaron Rodgers in his personal rankings.
“Matthew Stafford is Matthew Stafford. Aaron Rodgers—right now in the game—is my No. 1 QB. ... Matthew is top-two in the league. I give him his respect,” Williams says, reflecting his deep appreciation for the veteran signal-caller.
Longevity and Influence
Stafford's journey in the NFL is marked by consistent performance and a knack for making the big plays. Entering the 2024 season, Stafford ranks 11th all-time in both career passing yards and career touchdown passes, hallmarks of a career that has spanned nearly two decades.
Having spent the first 12 years of his career with the Detroit Lions, Stafford's time in Detroit was characterized by his ability to consistently produce on the field, even if team success was limited. The transition to the Los Angeles Rams marked a significant change in his career trajectory.
In his very first season with the Rams, Stafford achieved what had eluded him in Detroit: a Super Bowl title. This championship run cemented his place among the great quarterbacks in the league, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
A Deep Connection
Caleb Williams, who has followed Stafford's career closely from a young age, praises Stafford's craft and intelligence on the field. “I mean, he's unbelievable. Like, there's a couple plays where he'll go play action ... he has the linebacker on a string, like he wants the backer to go here, and he'll throw it right behind his head with the perfect touch, perfect velocity," Williams notes. This kind of precision and mastery of the game is what sets Stafford apart in Williams' eyes.
It's not just Williams who holds Stafford in high regard. The NFL community at large has recognized his talents, with Stafford being voted the 42nd best player in the NFL Top 100 Ranking. Although he has been selected for two Pro Bowls and has no All-Pro selections, these accolades perhaps underscore how individual brilliance doesn't always translate to personal awards in a team sport.
Continued Excellence
As he enters another season, Stafford’s focus remains on contributing to his team's success. For fans and aspiring quarterbacks like Williams, his career serves as a testament to resilience, skill, and the unique journey each player takes in the league.
The sentiment shared by Williams encapsulates the high regard in which Stafford is held by his peers. “I was not happy. I don't think I can name two quarterbacks, two, three quarterbacks that play the position better than Matthew Stafford,” Williams remarks, highlighting the competitive spirit and admiration Stafford inspires among younger players.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Stafford to see if he can add to his already impressive legacy. Whether it’s through pinpoint passes, otherworldly play-action fakes, or leading his team in the clutch, Stafford continues to be a benchmark for excellence in the NFL.